Lumbar plexus neuropathy resulting from retroperitoneal hemorrhage

A case of lumbar plexus neuropathy occurring in the setting of heparin therapy is reported. Documentation of the site of a retroperitoneal hematoma by CT scan was made prior to the full clinical evolution of lumbar plexus neuropathy resulting from a psoas-muscle hematoma. Two patterns of retroperitoneal bleeding and their respective clinical manifestations are discussed. Early diagnosis of these syndromes may allow for intervention before neurologic compromise is established.