OPALSKI SYNDROME: A RARE VARIANT OF WALLENBERG SYNDROME

Opalski syndrome, a rare variant of lateral medullary syndrome (Wallenberg syndrome), is characterized by the extension of ischemic injury into the corticospinal fibers below the pyramidal decussation, resulting in ipsilateral hemiparesis. This condition typically arises from vertebral artery occlusion, atherosclerosis, or other vascular etiologies. It presents with a combination of crossed sensory deficits, cerebellar dysfunction, and cranial nerve abnormalities. Advanced imaging techniques, particularly diffusion-weighted MRI, play a critical role in its diagnosis by identifying characteristic medullary and spinal cord infarctions. Management typically involves antiplatelet therapy and risk factor modification to prevent recurrent ischemic events. Increased awareness of Opalski syndromes clinical and radiological profile is essential for accurate diagnosis and optimal patient outcomes. Herein, we describe a case of a patient presenting with a lateral medullary infarction complicated by ipsilateral hemiparesis, leading to a definitive diagnosis of Opalski syndrome.