Case of Steroid-Sensitive Neuronopathy as a Differential Diagnosis to Dissociative Paralysis in Conversion Disorder

Abstract

AbstractNeuromuscular diseases are sometimes challenging in diagnosis, often associated with progressive symptoms. In rare cases, there are treatable reasons. We report about a 11-year-old female adolescent who developed subacute progressive paralysis over nearly half a year ago. She was presented to our department as a case of psychosomatic disease. After reevaluating her diagnosis with electrophysiology, cerebrospinal fluid, magnetic resonance imaging, and even biopsy and genetic testing, we treated her with intravenous methylprednisolone. Her symptoms were retreated during 3 months, and no further signs during a 18-month follow-up appeared. No psychotherapy was necessary.