Meningeal hematopoiesis causing exophthalmus and hemiparesis in myelofibrosis: effect of radiotherapy. A case report

Cancer. 1988 Dec 1;62(11):2346-9. doi: 10.1002/1097-0142(19881201)62:11<2346::aid-cncr2820621115>3.0.co;2-e.

Abstract

Meningeal myeloid metaplasia (MM) is very rarely observed in patients with myelofibrosis. We report the occurrence of meningeal MM causing exophthalmus and fever in a patient with myelofibrosis secondary to polycythemia vera. A computerized tomography (CT) scan showed multiple intracranial and intraorbital enhancing masses. A needle aspirate of retrobulbar space confirmed the diagnosis of extramedullary hematopoiesis. The patient subsequently developed a rapidly worsening tumor-like syndrome with hemiparesis, aphasia, and loss of sphinteric control. The administration of radiotherapy caused a complete and stable regression of clinical symptoms and a marked reduction of MM masses.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Exophthalmos / etiology*
  • Female
  • Hematopoiesis, Extramedullary*
  • Hemiplegia / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
  • Meninges / diagnostic imaging
  • Polycythemia Vera / complications*
  • Primary Myelofibrosis / complications*
  • Primary Myelofibrosis / radiotherapy
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed