Clinical and cerebrospinal fluid findings in lymphocytic meningo-radiculitis (Bannwarth's syndrome)

Abstract

11 patients with lymphocytic meningo‐radiculitis (Bannwarths syndrome) are described. The disease is characterized by intensive pain, often radiating and migrating, and neurological deficits, i.e. peripheral facial palsies, as well as disseminated radiculopathies. In 4 patients the onset was preceeded by an arthropode bite, close to which 3 patients exhibited an erythema chronicum migrans. In the cerebrospinal fluid there was a mononuclear pleocytosis, predominately by lymphocytes. In the early stages, a plasma cell reaction was frequently encountered. Protein analysis indicated a defect in the blood brain barrier and an intrathecal synthesis of IgG. All patients recovered almost completely from their neurological symptoms within 1–2 months, irrespective of treatment.