Paraneoplastic neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder associated with breast cancer: a case report and literature review

Abstract

Background: Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is an astrocytopathy with demyelinating lesions caused by aquaporin 4 (AQP4) antibodies. Although most commonly an idiopathic autoimmune condition, NMOSD may also occur as a paraneoplastic syndrome in rare instances. Case presentation: Herein, we report a rare case of a 60-year-old woman with paraneoplastic NMOSD associated with breast cancer. Conclusions: Our findings increase the recognition that NMOSD may present as a paraneoplastic neurological syndrome associated with breast cancer. Our case also raises awareness of an important complication of neurological complications of breast cancer. Early diagnosis of paraneoplastic NMOSD may be imperative for a better prognosis. Keywords: Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, paraneoplastic syndrome, breast cancer.