Vincristine-related neuropathy versus acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Autor(es): Brigo Francesco,Balter Rita,Marradi Pierluigi,Ferlisi Monica,Zaccaron Ada,Fiaschi Antonio,Frasson Emma,Bertolasi Laura


Resumo: The objective of this study was to evaluate whether electroneurography could help in differentiating between vincristine-induced neuropathy and acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy. We performed electroneurography in 7 children from September 2006 to March 2009 admitted to receive chemotherapy including vincristine for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, in whom severe acute limb weakness developed, suggesting vincristine-induced neuropathy. Three of 7 patients had electroneurography, suggesting acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy. They received intravenous immunoglobulins without discontinuing chemotherapy, and within 10 days their electroclinical conditions improved. Although electroneurography showed only absent F waves, preventing us from reaching a definitive neurophysiological diagnosis of acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy, children's presenting clinical manifestations, their disease course, and rapid and complete recovery after intravenous immunoglobulins argued strongly in its favor. A prompt, correct differential diagnosis of vincristine neuropathy and acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia receiving vincristine is essential to improve disease outcome and prolong life expectancy.


Palavras-Chave: Acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy; Acute lymphoblastic leukemia; Electroneurography; Chemotherapy; Intravenous immunoglobulin; Neurophysiological studies; Vincristine-induced neuropathy


Imprenta: Journal of Child Neurology, v. 27, n. 7, p. 867-874, 2012


Identificador do objeto digital: 10.1177/0883073811428379


Descritores: Guillain-Barre Syndrome - Cell ; Guillain-Barre Syndrome - Pathogenesis ; Guillain-Barre Syndrome - Proteins ; Guillain-Barre Syndrome - Public health


Data de publicação: 2012