Multifocal Motor Neuropathy Associated With Infliximab: A Case Report and a Literature Review

Neurologist. 2017 Jul;22(4):144-146. doi: 10.1097/NRL.0000000000000132.

Abstract

Multifocal motor neuropathy with conduction block (MMN-CB) is purely a motor neuropathy with progressive weakness that is characteristically caused by conduction blocks. Association with antiganglioside antibodies and a good response to immunomodulating therapies suggest an autoimmune etiology. In rare cases, MMN-CB has been reported as an adverse effect of infliximab, a tumor necrosis factor-α blocker. We present a case of MMN-CB due to infliximab in a 45-year-old man with psoriatic arthritis who was exposed to the drug for 2 years because of a delayed diagnosis. We emphasize the possibility of this adverse effect and the importance of detailed electrophysiological examinations, which is supported by a review of the literature.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antirheumatic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Arthritis, Psoriatic / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Infliximab / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Polyneuropathies / chemically induced*
  • Polyneuropathies / diagnosis
  • Polyneuropathies / physiopathology

Substances

  • Antirheumatic Agents
  • Infliximab