Spinal Cord Subacute Combined Degeneration Mimicked by Copper Deficiency: A Case Report

IF 0.6 Q3 MEDICINE, GENERAL & INTERNAL Clinical Case Reports Pub Date : 2025-02-07 DOI:10.1002/ccr3.70190

Zekarias Seifu Ayalew, Mehariw Wondimu Netsere, Matyas Adugna Abebe, Surafel Tilahun Maru, Gebeyehu Tessema Azibte, Aynalem Demsis Biza, Getnet Yigzaw Mossie

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Abstract

This case report underscores the diagnostic challenge of copper-deficiency myelopathy (CDM) and subacute combined degeneration (SCD) due to their similar clinical presentations. A 32-year-old male farmer initially treated for SCD with normal vitamin B12 levels showed no improvement, leading to a delayed diagnosis of CDM. His symptoms included sensory ataxia, spasticity, and sensory loss in the lower extremities, which resolved with oral copper supplementation. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for CDM, especially in patients who are unresponsive to B12 therapy. This case also highlights that marginal copper deficiency can cause significant neurological symptoms and that early intervention with copper supplementation can lead to full recovery, preventing irreversible damage. It also emphasizes the need for comprehensive testing, including copper levels, in cases of atypical myelopathy to avoid a delayed diagnosis.

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来源期刊

Clinical Case Reports MEDICINE, GENERAL & INTERNAL-

自引率

14.30%

发文量

1268

审稿时长

13 weeks

期刊介绍： Clinical Case Reports is different from other case report journals. Our aim is to directly improve global health and increase clinical understanding using case reports to convey important best practice information. We welcome case reports from all areas of Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, and Veterinary Science and may include: -Any clinical case or procedure which illustrates an important best practice teaching message -Any clinical case or procedure which illustrates the appropriate use of an important clinical guideline or systematic review. As well as: -The management of novel or very uncommon diseases -A common disease presenting in an uncommon way -An uncommon disease masquerading as something more common -Cases which expand understanding of disease pathogenesis -Cases where the teaching point is based on an error -Cases which allow us to re-think established medical lore -Unreported adverse effects of interventions (drug, procedural, or other).