Unilateral diaphragm paralysis with COVID-19 infection

Neurological complications are well described in SARS-CoV-2, but for the first time we report a case of unilateral diaphragm paralysis occurring early in mechanical ventilation for respiratory failure due to such an infection. The patient subsequently required tracheostomy and ventilator support for 37 days, and had increased breathlessness and an elevated diaphragm at clinic review 9 months later. Dynamic chest radiography demonstrated persistent diaphragm paralysis with an accompanying postural change in lung volumes, and he subsequently underwent surgical plication. This case demonstrates that although persistent dyspnoea is a common feature following SARS-CoV-2 infection and is usually due to deconditioning or persistent parenchymal involvement, it can be due to other causes and needs to be investigated appropriately.

Automated summary

This case demonstrates that persistent dyspnea following SARS-CoV-2 infection is not always due to deconditioning or lung involvement, as exemplified by unilateral diaphragm paralysis. It underscores the importance of thorough investigation for alternative causes of respiratory complications in post-COVID-19 patients.