Peripheral nerve damage following lightening injury

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Traumatology

Background:

• Lightning strikes can cause severe neurological deficits.
• Peripheral nerve injuries are a significant consequence of electrical trauma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the clinical course and neurophysiological findings in a patient with quadriplegia following a lightning strike.
• To analyze the peripheral nerve injury and associated medical complications.

Main Methods:

• Clinical examination of motor function and neurological status.
• Neurophysiological studies including electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS).
• Monitoring and management of medical complications such as renal failure and autonomic dysfunction.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with quadriplegia attributed to extensive peripheral nerve injury affecting plexuses, radicles, and nerve trunks.
• Neurophysiological studies confirmed widespread peripheral nerve damage.
• The patient exhibited multiple complications including acute renal failure, hypercalcemia, autonomic dysfunction, and cataract.
• Significant functional recovery was observed over several months.

Conclusions:

• Lightning strikes can result in profound and widespread peripheral nerve injuries leading to temporary paralysis.
• Early recognition and management of neurological deficits and systemic complications are crucial for patient outcomes.
• This case underscores the potential for substantial recovery from severe neurological impairment following lightning trauma.