Isolated abducens nerve palsy: an unusual presentation of leukemia

J Child Neurol. 2002 Nov;17(11):850-1. doi: 10.1177/08830738020170111702.

Abstract

We present a case of isolated abducens nerve palsy with negative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and unusual cerebrospinal fluid results. The patient was treated for a central nervous system infection initially. After the second cerebrospinal fluid examination, a diagnosis of central nervous system leukemia was made. Isolated abducens nerve palsy is not always a stable or benign illness, even with a normal brain MRI study. Abnormal cerebrospinal fluid results should suggest the presence of a central nervous system malignancy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abducens Nerve Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Child
  • Diplopia / diagnosis
  • Female
  • Headache / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Leukemia / diagnosis*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Neurologic Examination