A Neurocritical Case Study of Intracerebral Hemorrhage Unveiling Multiple Myeloma Through the Lens of Hickam's Dictum

Cureus. 2024 Apr 11;16(4):e58066. doi: 10.7759/cureus.58066. eCollection 2024 Apr.

Abstract

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematologic malignancy characterized by clonal proliferation of plasma cells in the bone marrow, often leading to various end-organ damages. Here, we report the case of a 73-year-old previously healthy woman who was initially diagnosed with an intracerebral hemorrhage secondary to a potential hypertensive emergency. However, further evaluation revealed a diagnosis of MM. This case points out the importance of comprehensive evaluations in neurocritical care and challenges the notion of simplistic diagnostic explanations, illustrating the relevance of Hickam's dictum in clinical practice. It highlights the need for clinicians to consider a broad range of potential etiologies in similar cases, ultimately leading to tailored management strategies and improved patient outcomes.

Keywords: diagnosis of multiple myeloma; hickam’s dictum; hypertension emergency; intracerebral hemorrhage; kidney failure.

Publication types

  • Case Reports