Exploring diagnostic and therapeutic implications of subacute lower motor neuronopathy in the setting of acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A case report

Abstract

Subacute lower motor neuronopathies (SLMN) have not been previously documented in association with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). We present a case with SLMN during the remission phase of ALL. Our patient, a young teenage male with ALL who was in remission following COTP chemotherapy, manifested weakness in the lower extremities. Following a comprehensive investigations, the patient was diagnosed with SLMN. Muscle biopsy corroborated the diagnosis, with neurogenic muscular atrophy, muscle fiber grouping and target fibers. The patient’s symptom improved on two occasions following corticosteroid therapy but the symptom relapsed upon discontinuation of the medication. This case support the association of SLMN in ALL.