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Journal of Medical Case Reports

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Open Access 01-12-2014 | Case report

Metastatic breast cancer presenting as sequential cranial nerve palsy: a case report

Authors: Indira M Madgula, Christopher M Hemmerdinger, Peter Clark

Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports | Issue 1/2014

Abstract

Introduction

Cranial nerve palsy is a common presentation in the neuro-ophthalmology clinic and investigations are directed towards the cause. Metastatic breast cancer presenting as carcinomatous meningitis leading to sequential fourth, third and sixth nerve palsy is very rare. This is the first case to be reported to the best of our knowledge.

Case presentation

A 66-year-old Caucasian woman presented with vertical double vision for the previous 3 weeks. At 6-weeks follow up this had resolved. However, she presented with a new third and sixth cranial nerve palsy. Neuroimaging with contrast revealed carcinomatous meningitis.

Conclusions

Metastatic cancer may manifest as cerebral metastases or carcinomatous meningitis. This is evident on neuroimaging with contrast and may be missed on unenhanced scans.

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Title: Metastatic breast cancer presenting as sequential cranial nerve palsy: a case report
Authors: Indira M Madgula
Christopher M Hemmerdinger
Peter Clark
Publication date: 01-12-2014
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports / Issue 1/2014
Electronic ISSN: 1752-1947
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/1752-1947-8-430

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Metastatic breast cancer presenting as sequential cranial nerve palsy: a case report

Abstract

Introduction

Case presentation

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Case presentation

Conclusions

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