Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders with vertigo as the initial symptom: A case report

RATIONALE: Brain abnormalities have frequently been reported in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders patients, but vertigo as an initial manifestation has rarely been described. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 64-year-old woman who initially presented with vertigo, then accompanied with other brainstem manifestations and spinal cord involvement. DIAGNOSES: MRI revealed medulla oblongata, cervical and thoracic spinal cord lesions. NMO-IgG antibody was seropositive. Taken her previous medical history and clinical manifestations into consideration, the patient was eventually diagnosed as neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. INTERVENTIONS: Before diagnosis, symptomatic treatment and acupuncture were adopted, whereas after diagnosis, steroid, intravenous immunoglobulin, and immunosuppressant were supplemented. OUTCOMES: Her dizziness, nausea and vomiting were gradually relieved by symptomatic treatment and acupuncture before the confirmed diagnosis and immunotherapy. After added treatment with steroid, immunosuppressant, especially intravenous immunoglobulin, diplopia and nystagmus disappeared, and superficial sensation was improving. She was fully recovered six months after admission. LESSONS: Vertigo as a rare prodrome of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders deserves attention. The symptoms and signs were improved by a combined treatment of steroid, immunosuppressant, acupuncture, and particularly intravenous immunoglobulin.