Presumptive isolated neurosarcoidosis involving eloquent structures: An argument for empirical TNF-α inhibition

Abstract

There are clinical and radiological phenotypes characteristic of neurosarcoidosis. Histopathologic confirmation is preferred, however, biopsy is associated with a significant risk of morbidity when only eloquent neural structures are involved and where there is no systemic disease. We present a series of patients with isolated neurosarcoidosis and suggest circumstances where an empirical, closely monitored, trial of tumour-necrosis-factor-alpha inhibitor therapy can improve outcome and diagnostic confidence.

Keywords: Empirical; MRI compatible; Myelitis; Neurosarcoidosis; Optic neuritis; Tumour-necrosis-factor-α inhibitor.