A lumbar puncture is performed on a 40-year-old man experiencing symptoms of blurred vision and numbness in his extremities.Results are:
-Using the information provided,based on the symptoms and laboratory tests ordered,what disorder does the physician suspect?

Question

A lumbar puncture is performed on a 40-year-old man experiencing symptoms of blurred vision and numbness in his extremities.Results are: 
-Using the information provided,based on the symptoms and laboratory tests ordered,what disorder does the physician suspect?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms of blurred vision and numbness in the extremities, along with the results of the lumbar puncture (showing elevated protein and white blood cells), suggest a possible diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. This condition is characterized by damage to the myelin sheath that surrounds nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord, leading to symptoms such as blurred vision, numbness or weakness in the limbs, and problems with balance and coordination. The elevated protein and white blood cells in the cerebrospinal fluid may indicate inflammation associated with this condition. Other conditions that may cause similar symptoms include late cerebral hemorrhage, viral meningitis, and CSF leakage, but the laboratory findings are not consistent with these diagnoses.

A Lumbar Puncture Is Performed on a 40-Year-Old Man Experiencing