A case of Lewis–Sumner syndrome with conduction abnormalities only in the brachial plexus and roots

Abstract

We present a case of subacute weakness of one hand with unusual sensory involvement including the upper thorax. Despite normal distal conduction studies, a clinical diagnosis of Lewis-Sumner syndrome was made and the patient responded well to intravenous immunoglobulins. Repeated studies after clinical exacerbation finally proved the demyelinating nature of the neuropathy using proximal magnetic nerve stimulation. This case underlies the importance of seeking proximal conduction blocks in patients with suspected demyelinating neuropathy.