Lateral Medullary Syndrome Secondary to Extracranial Vertebral Artery Dissection: A Case Report

Lateral medullary syndrome, or Wallenberg syndrome, arises due to the infarction of the posterolateral part of the medulla oblongata and is commonly associated with vertebral artery dissection in young patients. This case report is about a 27-year-old female patient who presented with symptoms of right-sided headache, vertigo, dizziness, facial weakness, and limb weakness. While the cardiovascular, respiratory, and abdominal examinations were normal, neurological deficits were seen. Imaging studies showed vertebral artery dissection, leading to the diagnosis of lateral medullary syndrome. Hemiplegic migraine, malignancy, and conversion disorders were considered initially as differentials. The patient was managed with medications, physiotherapy, and counseling, while surgery was not advised. Management without surgical intervention is not always the case for lateral medullary syndrome. However, the patient responded well to the treatment and moved toward recovery. In conclusion, the uniqueness of this case lies in the presentation with a diverse array of symptoms alongside a personal history of breast cancer, highlighting potential diagnostic challenges.