Muscle invasive bladder cancer presenting as recurrent autonomic dysreflexia – a wolf in wolf's clothing. (3rd July 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fitzpatrick, Ryan; Baverstock, Richard
• Is Part Of: Journal of spinal cord medicine. Volume 43:Number 4(2020:Jul.)
• Page Start: 540
• Page End: 543
• Publication Date: 2020-07-03
• Subjects: Autonomic dysreflexia -- Spinal cord injury -- Bladder cancer -- Hydronephrosis; Spinal cord -- Wounds and injuries -- Periodicals; Spinal cord -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 616.8305
• DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2018.1487188
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1079-0268

Abstract

Abstract : Context: Autonomic dysreflexia is a potentially lethal condition experienced by spinal cord injury (SCI) patients. It has a wide range of causes, most of which are genitourinary in nature. However, there has been no documented case of primary bladder cancer as a trigger for recurrent autonomic dysreflexia. Findings: We present a case of a 51-year-old spinal cord injury patient with multiple presentations of autonomic dysreflexia. Work up revealed locally invasive bladder cancer, and following definitive surgery, his symptoms were alleviated. Conclusions: In SCI patients with recurrent AD, comprehensive work up with involvement of a specialized Urologist is required as AD may be the only presenting symptom of a serious underlying medical condition.