[Chronic ergotism: spinal lesion and neuropathy]. / Ergotisme chronique: atteinte médullaire et mononeuropathie.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Neuropathologic manifestations due to chronic ergotism are rare. OBSERVATION We report the case of a 40-year-old patient who presented clinical signs and symptoms of a spinal lesion and also the symptoms of neuropathy involving the right sciatic nerve, more precisely the internal and external popliteal nerves, following ingestion of methysergide. Complete recovery was achieved with calcium blocker treatment. CONCLUSION: Ergotism should be considered in patients treated by ergot alkaloids presenting an atypical clinical manifestations.