Autoimmune Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein Astrocytopathy: The Role of a Neurourogist From the Intensive Care Unit to Improving the Patient's Quality of Life.

Autoimmune glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) astrocytopathy is an autoimmune disease that involves GFAP autoantibodies in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum. Clinical manifestations exhibit diverse symptoms affecting various brain regions and spinal cord. Diagnosis challenges persist due to the absence of standardized criteria, yet steroid therapy shows promise despite varied responses. Herein we present the case of a 30-year-old male with meningoencephalomyelitis symptoms, later diagnosed with autoimmune astrocytopathy. Treatment involved plasmapheresis, corticosteroids, and mycophenolate mofetil, with a positive outcome. Neurourological complications, including acute urinary retention, prompted catheterization, and urodynamic studies revealed detrusor overactivity. Timely intervention enabled the restoration of bladder function, underscoring the importance of specialized care in complex neurologic conditions for improving patients' quality of life (QoL). This case emphasizes the significance of early neurourological intervention and the role of specialized centers in delivering tailored care for better patient outcomes.

Informations de copyright

Copyright © 2024, Tsikopoulos et al.

Déclaration de conflit d'intérêts

Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work.