Slowly progressive folate-deficiency myelopathy: report of a case.

摘要: Abstract Background Folate deficiency is known to be associated with subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord; however, reports long-standing cases are rare. Although neurological deficits due folate have been reported respond folic acid supplementation, functional outcomes not fully elucidated. Objective The aim study was evaluate clinical features and response supplementation in a patient manifested over 10 years as slowly progressive myelopathy. Methods We performed comprehensive screening, electrophysiological testing, posturography before after supplementation. Results A 49-year-old man had gait disturbance for 10 years. He eaten fresh green vegetables more than Neurological examination revealed spastic paraplegia absence any vibration sense lower limbs accompanied by positive Romberg's sign. Serum level low, plasma homocysteine elevated. Levels blood thiamine serum cobalamin were normal. diagnosed myelopathy deficiency. Folic led improvement his symptoms; walking speed tests showed partial improvement, while somatosensory-evoked potentials central motor conduction time remained unchanged. Conclusions should considered differential diagnosis chronic present case suggests importance early treatment adverse manifestations become irreversible.