Bilateral paralysis of peroneal nerve after COVID-19 disease: a case report

COVID-19, caused by a novel coronavirus SARS-CoV 2 has rapidly developed into pandemic. This infectious disease affecting mainly respiratory system may cause multiple systemic disorders. With increasing number of new infected patients there are more and more cases with neurological complications secondary to COVID-19.

Here we present a case of 67-years old Polish male with previously no comorbidities, who has developed bilateral paralysis of peroneal nerve after SARS-CoV 2 infection. Prior to the hospitalization he presented cough and fever and weakness. RT-PCR was reported positive for COVID-19 infection. Then he developed pneumonia and respiratory failure with bilateral lung consolidations on radiological examination. Laboratory findings revealed elevated levels of D-dimer, CRP, AspAT, GGTP, PCT and serum glucose. After discharge from hospital he was diagnosed with thrombophlebitis and prediabetes on follow-up visits. Due to problems with walking, numbness of toes and involuntary muscle spasms in hands, the patient went to the Neurological Outpatient Clinic. After neurological examination bilateral paralysis of peroneal nerve was revealed.

In this report we want to highlight one of the unexpected presentations of SARS-CoV 2 infection and emphasize the importance of neurological examination in COVID-19 patients.