Morvan syndrome associated with prominent Tau pathology: A clinicopathological case report.

INTRODUCTION

We report a case of Morvan syndrome in a 48-year-old man, emphasizing the presence of prominent tau pathology in the frontal cortex identified during postmortem examination. Morvan syndrome is characterized by peripheral nerve hyperexcitability, autonomic dysfunction, and encephalopathy, and is often associated with antibodies against LGI1 and Caspr2.

METHODS

Clinical assessment documented neurological, autonomic, and cognitive symptoms consistent with Morvan syndrome. Serological testing confirmed LGI1 and Caspr2 antibodies. Despite treatment, the patient suffered fatal cardiac arrest. Full autopsy, including detailed neuropathological assessment, was performed, with specific examination of neuronal and glial tau pathology.

RESULTS

Autopsy revealed a thymoma and extensive tau accumulation in the frontal cortex with neuronal and astrocytic involvement. Neurofibrillary tangles, pretangles, and astroglial tau aggregates were detected. The patient had no history of repetitive head trauma or participation in contact sports.

CONCLUSIONS

This case suggests a potential association between immune-mediated disorders-specifically Morvan syndrome with LGI1 and Caspr2 antibodies-and focal tau pathology. The coexistence of autoimmune features and tau deposition raises questions about shared or interacting pathophysiological mechanisms. Further research is warranted to clarify these relationships.