Cervical myelitis in a patient with pulmonary sarcoidosis

Abstract

Background Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic disease characterized by noncaseating granulomas, predominantly affecting organs such as the lungs and lymph nodes. Spinal cord involvement of sarcoidosis is uncommon. Case Report A 32-year-old male presented with pain and numbness in bilateral upper extremities for 1 year. He had pulmonary sarcoidosis 4 years ago. Spinal magnetic resonance imaging showed a cord lesion with enhancement at the C5 to C6 level. Chest computed tomography revealed the increased size of the lymph nodes compared to previously. His serum angiotensin-converting enzyme level was elevated. He was diagnosed with myelitis caused by sarcoidosis. After steroid treatment, the numbness improved, but the pain still persisted. Conclusion To enable the early detection and treatment of neurosarcoidosis among patients with systemic sarcoidosis, a high degree of suspicion is required. Neurological complications can be minimized if it is detected and treated early.

Keywords

• neurosarcoidosis
• myelitis
• spinal cord