Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 19, 2026
03:53
Regenerative Peripheral Nerve Interface: Surgical Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial in Postamputation Pain
Published on: March 15, 2024
Peripheral neuropathy of the extremity after hyperbaric exposure
Mary M Garland1, Amparo Gutrierrez, Diana M Barratt
1Florida International University, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Miami, FL 33199, USA.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|August 10, 2012
Summary
Neurological deficits after diving, like foot drop, are usually decompression illness (DCI). However, this case highlights that severe weight loss and malnutrition can cause peroneal neuropathy, mimicking DCI symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Diving Medicine
- Hyperbaric Medicine
Background:
- Neurological deficits after diving or hyperbaric exposure are typically attributed to central nervous system decompression illness (DCI).
- However, alternative diagnoses should be considered, especially with atypical presentations.
Observation:
- A hyperbaric technician developed foot drop after hyperbaric exposure.
- Her history included significant weight loss and a gastric bypass.
- She did not improve with treatment for presumed neurological DCI.
Findings:
- Neurological evaluation revealed common peroneal mononeuropathy.
- The neuropathy was deemed more likely due to extreme weight loss and malnutrition than DCI.
- Literature review found rare cases of peripheral DCI and other causes of neuropathy in divers.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering non-DCI causes for neurological symptoms in divers.
- Extreme weight loss and malnutrition are potential risk factors for peroneal neuropathy.
- Diving medicine professionals should be aware of differential diagnoses for neurological deficits in divers.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Peripheral Arterial Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Evaluation
Clinical manifestationsPeripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) manifests through a range of symptoms, from the characteristic intermittent claudication to atypical presentations and severe complications in advanced stages. Intermittent claudication, a hallmark symptom of PAD, presents as exercise-induced muscle pain that typically resolves within minutes of rest. This pain is reproducible and stems from inadequate blood flow, leading to the accumulation of lactic acid produced during anaerobic...
01:22Diabetic Neuropathy
DefinitionDiabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by long-standing diabetes mellitus. It results directly from prolonged high blood sugar levels.PathophysiologyThe pathophysiology of diabetic neuropathy involves both metabolic and vascular disturbances triggered by chronic hyperglycemia.Metabolic injury: Elevated glucose levels activate the polyol pathway within nerve cells, leading to the accumulation of sorbitol and fructose. This increases oxidative stress, disrupts normal nerve...
01:30Peripheral Artery Disease I: Introduction
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) predominantly results from atherosclerosis, which involves the accumulation of fatty deposits, or plaques, within the walls of arteries. This causes them to narrow and harden, significantly reducing blood flow. PAD predominantly affects the legs, particularly the arteries supplying the thighs and calves. In rare cases, it may involve other arteries, including those in the arms.Etiology of PAD:The principal cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, which results from fatty...
01:26Peripheral Artery Disease IV: Nursing Management
The nursing management of a patient with peripheral artery disease (PAD) begins with a thorough assessment of the patient’s health history and clinical manifestations.AssessmentHealth History: Evaluate the patient’s history of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, family history of cardiovascular issues, and lifestyle factors such as dietary patterns, smoking, and physical activity.Physical Examination:Assess the affected extremity for decreased or absent peripheral pulses, temperature changes,...
01:31Diabetic Foot Ulcer
Definition A diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a chronic, non-healing wound that develops in individuals with diabetes. It typically occurs on pressure-bearing areas such as the heel, metatarsal heads, or hallux, and carries a high risk of infection and amputation.Pathophysiology • The development of DFUs can be explained by four interconnected mechanisms: neuropathy, ischemia, infection, and impaired wound healing. • Neuropathy is the most common factor. Sensory neuropathy reduces pain perception,...
01:23Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
During the postoperative period, it is crucial to focus on maintaining circulation, identifying and managing potential complications, and planning for discharge.Nursing AssessmentVital signs monitoring: Regularly monitor vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature, to detect early signs of complications such as bleeding and infection.Circulation assessment: Monitor pulses, perform Doppler assessments, and check capillary refill, color, temperature, and...