Common peroneal nerve palsy secondary to peroneus longus abscess: case report

Muscle abscess presenting as nerve palsy is rare and has not been previously reported in the common peroneal nerve (CPN). The objective of this case report is to describe the diagnosis and treatment of an uncommon presentation of peroneal abscess in the leg of an otherwise healthy man. We present a case of CPN palsy in a 50-year-old immunocompetent man with no other comorbid medical condition secondary to peroneus longus abscess. The diagnosis was suggested by magnetic resonance imaging examination and confirmed by intraoperative findings. After surgical drainage of the abscess, the patient made a complete recovery. A review of the literature confirms that peroneus longus abscess giving rise to CPN palsy has not been described. Early diagnosis and surgical drainage of the compressing abscess can produce a favorable outcome.