Glioblastoma multiforme presenting with recurrent neurological deficits: Transient ischemic attacks or tumor attacks.
Transient ischemic attacks result from the temporary focal interruption of blood flow to the brain. We present three patients with glioblastoma multiforme and recurrent speech arrests or right-sided numbness. The clinical diagnosis of "transient ischemic attack" was made in each patient. This diagnosis remained unchanged for months to 2 years after initial presentation and investigations. The correct diagnosis was made with a brain biopsy in two patients and as a result of additional investigations in the third patient. It is important to remember brain tumor in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with recurrent brief neurological symptoms.
From the Department of Medicine (Neurology), Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
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Al-Tweigeri
From the Department of Medicine (Neurology), Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.; The Saskatchewan Stroke Research Centre, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
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Shuaib
The Department of Radiology (Neuroradiology), Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
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Denath
The Department of Pathology (Neuropathology), Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
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Ang
The Department of Neurosurgery, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.; The Saskatchewan Stroke Research Centre, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
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Khan
From the Department of Medicine (Neurology), Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
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Bourgault