Hepatic myelopathy with spastic paraparesis: report of two cases and review of the literature.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The present report illustrates two men aged for 59 and 43 years, respectively, who presented with slowly progressive spastic paraparesis. STUDY DESIGN: Two case reports and review of literature. METHODS: The patent's history, clinical examination, biology, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and treatment are reported. We also discuss the pathogenesis and various treatment options. RESULTS: Neurologic examination showed spastic paraparesis without other neurological disorders. MRI of the spinal cord and brain were normal. Cytologic examination of cerebrospinal fluid from each patient was normal. Hemogram disclosed a pancytopenia. Partial thromboplastin time was prolonged. Liver function tests revealed raised serum bilirubin, normal alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, reduced total protein and albumin. Plasma ammonia was elevated. Blood vitamin B12 and folate values were in normal ranges. Serum antibodies to human T cell lymphotropic virus, human immunodeficiency virus, syphilis and hepatitis C virus were absent. Hepatitis B virus antibody assay was positive. The electromyographic evaluation for second motor neuron involvement was also normal. Endoscopy revealed esophageal varices and a spleno-renal shunt. CONCLUSIONS: Hepatic myelopathy remains a default diagnosis assigned only after the exclusion of other causes of spastic paraparesis and partial transverse myelopathy. An accurate history, along with appropriate imaging and laboratory findings, is crucial.