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Updated: May 7, 2026
08:56
Nerve Ultrasound Protocol to Detect Dysimmune Neuropathies
Published on: October 7, 2021
Colchicine-induced myoneuropathy mimicking polyradiculoneuropathy
Partha S Ghosh1, Alison M Emslie-Smith1, Elliot L Dimberg2
1Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Summary
Colchicine can cause myoneuropathy, a muscle and nerve complication. This condition, often overlooked, improved quickly when the patient stopped taking colchicine.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Colchicine is a medication commonly used to treat gout and familial Mediterranean fever.
- Myoneuropathy is a condition affecting both muscles and nerves.
Observation:
- A patient presented with symptoms of muscle weakness and nerve dysfunction.
- The patient had been taking colchicine for an extended period.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with colchicine-induced myoneuropathy.
- Muscle weakness and neurological symptoms improved significantly after discontinuing colchicine.
Implications:
- Colchicine-induced myoneuropathy is an under-recognized complication that requires clinical attention.
- Early recognition and discontinuation of colchicine can lead to rapid recovery of neurological function.
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