Neuropediatrics 2003; 34(3): 149-151
DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-41272
Short Communication

Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Focal Neuropathy in Children with Critical Illness

M. J. Tan 1 , R. Kandler 1 , P. S. Baxter 1
  • 1Sheffield Children's Hospital, Western Bank, Sheffield, U.K.
Further Information

Publication History

Received: August 22, 2002

Accepted after Revision: February 19, 2003

Publication Date:
11 August 2003 (online)

Abstract

Four children are described who developed focal lower limb nerve palsies following critical illness. Two had clinical and/or neurophysiological evidence of simultaneous generalised critical illness polyneuropathy. The diagnosis was delayed in three patients due to the presence of central motor abnormalities and slow motor recovery. Follow-up from seven months to three years showed minimal or no recovery. In three, a vasculitic skin infarct, compartment syndrome and focal myositis could have caused nerve compression. We suggest that in critical illness peripheral nerves have an increased susceptibility to damage by local pressure.

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Dr. Peter S. Baxter

Ryegate Children's Centre

Tapton Crescent Road

Sheffield S10 5DD

U.K.

Email: P.S.Baxter@Sheffield.ac.uk