'I Thought It Was My Diabetes': An Acute Presentation of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder.

Abstract

Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) is an immune-mediated neuroinflammatory disease of the central nervous system. Patients typically present with sensory deficits, weakness, and incontinence. This is a case of a 43-year-old female with diabetes mellitus admitted for acute onset leg weakness and stool incontinence. Spinal MRI imaging revealed transverse myelitis, and her lab work was significant for an anti-aquaporin 4 (AQP4) antibody titer of 1:2,560. Initial treatment consisted of a high-dose steroid taper and plasmapheresis. This unique case illustrates the importance in recognizing delayed presentations of rare neuroinflammatory conditions previously assumed to be a sequela of diabetic neuropathy.