Lumbosacral Radiculoplexus Neuropathy After COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Immunology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Lumbosacral Radiculoplexus Neuropathy (LRPN) is an immune-mediated neuropathy.
• Diabetes mellitus-associated LRPN (DLRPN) often presents with pain and paralysis.
• Identifying triggers for LRPN is crucial for understanding its pathogenesis.

Observation:

• A 55-year-old man developed DLRPN following mild COVID-19.
• Symptoms included severe neuropathic pain, orthostasis, fatigue, weight loss, and bilateral lower extremity weakness.
• Diagnosis was confirmed by electrophysiology, MRI, and nerve biopsy showing microvasculitis.

Findings:

• The patient presented with asymmetric axonal lumbosacral and thoracic radiculoplexus neuropathies.
• Cerebrospinal fluid showed elevated protein, and nerve biopsy confirmed microvasculitis.
• Treatment with intravenous methylprednisolone resulted in marked improvement.

Implications:

• This case suggests COVID-19 can act as a trigger for LRPN.
• Early diagnosis and treatment of post-COVID-19 neuropathies are essential.
• Further research is needed to explore the link between viral infections and inflammatory neuropathies.