Abstract
Introduction: Subacute combined degeneration (DCS) is a disorder characterized by diffuse degeneration of white matter at the CNS level, specifically affecting the posterior and lateral cords of the spinal cord, also with loss of peripheral and central myelination, frequently the clinical manifestations are paresthesias and generalized weakness caused by vitamin B12 deficiency.
Case presentation: A 79-year-old male patient with a 3-month history of functional limitation for walking accompanied by disorientation. On physical examination, he revealed disorientation, quadriparesis, and hyporeflexia, with low serum levels of vitamin B12, cervical MRI with hyperintense foci in segment C3/C6, and upper digestive tract endoscopy with atrophy of the gastric mucosa. We present a clinical case of DCS.
Discussion: This is a case of DCS that manifests itself through neuropsychiatric alteration with a non-specific initial presentation with gait impairment, abnormal movements with cognitive and psychiatric affectation given by visual hallucinations and disorientation. Its suspicion is important in patients with risk factors. risk through knowledge of the pathology for an adequate diagnostic suspicion and a timely establishment of vitamin replacement for which it presents an excellent response.
Conclusion: DCS is a disorder where anemia with vitamin B12 deficiency, demyelination of the nervous tissue and in many cases signs suggestive of gastric atrophy are evident, for which early detection of this disease is crucial through the determination of serum levels of vitamin B12 associated with neurological symptoms, in order to achieve its proper diagnosis and treatment.
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