CLINICAL STUDIES OF NEUROPATHY DUE TO MACROGLOBULINEMIA (WALDENSTROEM'S SYNDROME)

Can Med Assoc J. 1963 Oct 19;89(16):806-9.

Abstract

A case of severe neuropathy due to macro-globulinemia is reported with clinical, biochemical and electrophysiological studies. The clinical picture was that of a severe, symmetrical polyneuropathy of a sensory-motor type with increased protein in the CSF. Sedimentation rate was increased and a sharp rise was found in the globulin fractions on plasma electrophoresis. Immuno-assays of CSF showed increases of albumin, transferrin and gamma globulin. Blood chromosome studies were normal. EMG showed neuromuscular atrophy. Nerve conduction times were prolonged. These studies are compatible with a neuropathy of an allergic or metabolic nature. Macro-globulinemia of Waldenström should be considered in the differential diagnosis of obscure neuropathies.

MeSH terms

  • Blood Chemical Analysis*
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Proteins*
  • Diet*
  • Electrophoresis*
  • Folic Acid*
  • Humans
  • Movement Disorders*
  • Muscular Atrophy*
  • Neural Conduction*
  • Neurologic Manifestations*
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases*
  • Syndrome*
  • Vasodilator Agents*
  • Vitamin B Complex*
  • Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia*
  • gamma-Globulins*

Substances

  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Proteins
  • Vasodilator Agents
  • gamma-Globulins
  • Vitamin B Complex
  • Folic Acid