A case report of integrating Chinese and Western medicine: A new era in the treatment of stiff person syndrome

Abstract

Rationale: At present, there are limitations to the treatment of stiff person syndrome (SPS). Current treatments are still ineffective or financially burdensome for some patients, so it is imperative to explore more appropriate treatments for patients. This is a case report of a SPS with a more significant effect of combined Chinese and Western medicine, which may provide new treatment ideas for other patients. Patient concerns: This patient presented with episodes of stiffness and pain in the lower back and lower extremities. His electromyography shows continued activation of normal motor units in the paraspinal and abdominal muscles. However, relevant laboratory tests including glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody and Amphiphysin antibody were negative. After a period of treatment including clonazepam, baclofen, prednisone and intravenous immunoglobulin, this patient experiences a shortened maintenance period of medication, accompanied by symptoms such as emotional anxiety and cognitive decline, which severely affects his life. Diagnoses: This patient was diagnosed with SPS. Interventions: In May 2022 the patient decided to combine Chinese medicine for simultaneous treatment. Outcomes: During the period of simultaneous treatment with Chinese and Western medicine, the patient experienced remission of clinical symptoms, reduction of concomitant symptoms and improved quality of life. conclusion: A combination of Western and Chinese medicine was effective in relieving this patient pain and stiffness and reducing the patient anxiety. Combined Chinese and Western medicine treatment may be able to bring better results to more patients with stiff person syndrome.