A Case of Foot Drop as an Expression of Brain Metastases?

Abstract

Foot drop can be defined as a significant weakness in ankle and toe dorsiflexion. Injury to the dorsiflexors or to any point along the neural pathways that supply these muscles can result in a foot drop. Injury to the peroneal nerve is usually the major precipitant. Other causes vary from trauma to surgical nerve injury, as well as leg compartment syndromes or dorsiflexor injuries, peripheral nerve injuries, stroke, neuropathies, drug toxicities, spinal stenosis, L5 sciaticas, systemic diseases such as connective tissue diseases, vasculidities, or diabetes. This report focuses on a patient presenting with a foot drop as an unusual manifestation of brain metastasis. His minimal symptomatology seemed to point towards a local process. Therefore, early recognition and prompt treatment are essential. The central nervous system must be the target of investigations when the workup fails to disclose the proper etiology. Potential diagnostic delays may occur. Certain cases may require a more aggressive approach.