Chronic sensorimotor polyneuropathy associated with tacrolimus immunosuppression in renal transplant patients: case...

Tacrolimus is used widely for immunosuppression following transplantation. It has rarely been linked to the development of peripheral neuropathy. However, one study also reported improvement in peripheral neuropathy after tacrolimus use. We have reported herein two patients who developed chronic sensorimotor polyneuropathy after tacrolimus use following renal transplantation. One patient had an unusual presentation with bilateral facial and extremity weakness and a relapsing course. The other patient presented with focal sensory symptoms in one hand. Electrophysiological studies confirmed widespread, predominantly demyelinating or axonal polyneuropathy. We concluded that patients on tacrolimus should be carefully monitored for symptoms suggestive of peripheral neuropathy.