BACKGROUND: The association of headache with transient neurological deficits and cerebrospinal fluid lymphocytosis (HaNDL) is recognized as a distinct benign, self-limited headache syndrome. Aphasic, sensory and motor disturbances predominate the clinical picture and to our knowledge, only 2 detailed cases of confusion and agitation have been previously described.
CASE: We present our recent experience with 2 cases of the HaNDL syndrome who, in addition to the focal neurological deficits, developed confusional state of variable degree, with no signs of aphasia that could jeopardize the clinical picture. An extensive laboratory and neuroimaging work-up excluded all other possible entities and both patients treated conservatively showed an excellent functional recovery.
CONCLUSION: We suggest that, although the HaNDL syndrome has a focal plateau, explaining the focal deficits; diffuse manifestations in the form of confusion may well be part of the clinical spectrum of this disorder.