Myelitis and anti-Yo antibodies: a paraneoplastic syndrome associated with nasopharyngeal carcinoma detected by positron emission tomography. A case report

Introduction and objective:Paraneoplastic syndromes (PS) associated with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NC) are very rare. We described a patient who presented with a paraneoplastic mielitis associated with anti-Yo antibodies and NC.Description:A 70 year-old previously healthy man presented with a progressive gait disorder. The diagnosis work up demonstrated both the presence of anti-Yo antibodies together with a NC, suspected by positron emission tomography (PET-CT). Despite prompt treatment with steroids, gammaglobulins and a satisfactory tumour therapy, partial neurological symptomathology persisted.Conclusions:Although rare, clinicians should consider the possibility of paraneoplastic aetiology when attending patients with NC presenting with subacute neurological symptoms.