Intradural Intramedullary Spinal Cord Glioblastoma: A Case Report.

Primary spinal cord glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) remains uncommon and typically affects males and patients during their fifth decade of life. Our case demonstrates a 77-year-old woman who initially presented with right arm paresthesia and limited range of motion and was subsequently diagnosed with primary spinal cord GBM. Our case illustrates an atypical and nonspecific neurological presentation highlighting that spinal cord GBM can have a more indolent course, unlike what current literature suggests. It also emphasizes the importance of considering a multimodal approach when managing atypical neurological symptoms and considering an early intervention, including magnetic resonance imaging, to rule out occult neoplasm in an appropriate clinical setting, thus preventing delay in the diagnosis. This case further emphasizes the role of molecular biomarkers of tumors, including isocitrate dehydrogenase mutation as well as methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase promoter methylation status, that can independently guide and affect the treatment outcomes in this patient population.

Global Transient Amnesia as the Predominant Symptom of Cardiac Myxoma: A Case Report.

BACKGROUND The most common neurological symptoms from cardiac myxoma-induced stroke include territories of middle cerebral arteries, rendering posterior stroke less common. Although transient global amnesia usually has a benign prognosis, amnesia in the setting of concerning cerebellar symptoms should raise the suspicion for posterior circulation involvement. These benign-appearing symptoms can be manifestations of an acute cerebrovascular accident (CVA). This unusual presentation can delay workup for underlying pathology. CASE REPORT A 67-year-old woman presented to the local emergency department after an episode of global amnesia that lasted about 15 minutes and was associated with some dizziness. The patient also reported a history of chronic disequilibrium. The head CT scan was negative for any acute findings. A follow-up MRI of the brain demonstrated acute small lacunar infarcts within the left cerebellum and right parietal lobe. An echocardiogram was performed due to concern for the cardioembolic source, which revealed left atrial myxoma. She was transferred to a tertiary center for immediate surgical intervention due to the high risk of embolization associated with the condition. The patient subsequently underwent successful surgical excision of the lesion. CONCLUSIONS Cardiac myxoma, although a rare cause of posterior stroke, needs prompt intervention as it is associated with a high risk of systemic embolization, including recurrent CVA. Transient global amnesia is an atypical presentation of cardiac myxoma that can easily be overlooked, delaying timely diagnosis and prompt intervention. Early recognition and surgical resection are crucial to prevent potentially life-threatening consequences.

A Case of Concurrent Leukocytosis and Systemic Capillary Leak Syndrome Due to Pegfilgrastim.

Pegfilgrastim is a granulocyte colony-stimulating factor agent used in patients receiving myelosuppressive therapy with chemotherapy or radiation. Two adverse effects associated with this agent include capillary leak syndrome and leukocytosis. To our knowledge, this is the first case of a patient who developed both systemic capillary leak syndrome and leukocytosis greater than 100,000 cells/µL after receiving pegfilgrastim. This patient received early fluid resuscitation, vasopressor support, and methylprednisolone, which improved her clinical course during hospitalization.