Leukemic Meningoencephalitis with Acute Quadriparesis: A Case Report of CNS Involvement in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

Dr. Puratchi Kodi A.

Abstract: Background: Central nervous system (CNS) involvement in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is rare but represents a medical emergency, with presentation as leukemic meningoencephalitis. This case highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in managing CNS blast infiltration in a patient with CML. Case Presentation: A 26-year-old male farmer with a 5-year history of CML (on Nilotinib therapy) presented with sudden-onset acute quadriparesis, urinary retention, and autonomic dysfunction. Clinical examination revealed flaccid weakness (power 0?1/5 in lower limbs), areflexia, and elevated blood pressure with postural hypotension. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis showed leukocytosis with hyperproteinemia; cytology revealed blast cells positive for BCR-ABL. The patient developed respiratory muscle weakness requiring mechanical ventilation. Outcome: Despite intravenous corticosteroid therapy and subsequent management, the patient developed critical illness with refractory autonomic dysfunction and respiratory failure. Conclusion: This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing CNS involvement in CML as a life-threatening complication and highlights the challenges of rapid diagnosis and management of leukemic meningoencephalitis.

Keywords: Chronic Myeloid Leukemia, CNS involvement, Leukemic meningoencephalitis, Quadriparesis, BCR-ABL

How to Cite?: Dr. Puratchi Kodi A., "Leukemic Meningoencephalitis with Acute Quadriparesis: A Case Report of CNS Involvement in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia", Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 2363-2365, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26619214746, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26619214746

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