Respiratory arrest in systemic lupus erythematosus due to phrenic nerve neuropathy

Abstract

Diaphragmatic weakness in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a controversial issue and is claimed to have a neuropathic, myopathic or unknown pathogenesis. In this patient a predominantly motor neuropathy with diaphragmatic paralysis due to axonal involvement of the phrenic nerve was discovered and successfully treated with immunosuppressive drugs.

Keywords

EMG neuropathy NCV SLE SLS

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