Peripheral neuropathy after autologous blood stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma

Leukemia. 1994 Feb;8(2):322-6.

Abstract

We report a case of peripheral neuropathy occurring after autologous blood stem cell transplantation (ABSCT) for multiple myeloma. The patient, free of neurological symptoms, was transplanted in partial remission, and achieved a complete remission after transplantation. A severe peripheral, symmetric, distal sensori-motor polyneuropathy appeared at day 25 and worsened progressively until commencement of corticosteroid therapy. A peripheral nerve biopsy showed endoneurial cellular infiltrates which were predominantly composed of T cells identified by immunocytochemistry. Ultrastructural examination showed acute axonal damage. Electrophysiologic studies performed before and during the treatment were consistent with a severe axonal degeneration and showed a marked improvement, concomitant with the favorable clinical outcome. This is the first report of peripheral neuropathy after ABSCT.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Axons / ultrastructure
  • Biopsy
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation*
  • Humans
  • Macrophages / pathology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Multiple Myeloma / therapy*
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / etiology*
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / pathology
  • Peroneal Nerve / pathology
  • Peroneal Nerve / ultrastructure
  • T-Lymphocytes / pathology
  • Transplantation, Autologous