Bilateral diaphragm paralysis: a clinical case

Abstract

Diaphragm dysfunction is a rare cause of respiratory distress with a variety of clinical manifestations that complicate diagnosis and treatment. The given clinical case demonstrates the possibility of detecting bilateral diaphragm paralysis using available general clinical and instrumental diagnostic methods. Among the physical data, high standing of the lower borders of the lungs with limited mobility and paradoxical movement of the diaphragm during the Mueller test have a high diagnostic value. Chest X-ray demonstrates the high standing of both domes of the diaphragm and subsegmental atelectasis in the basal parts of the lungs. Severe hypoxemia developed: oxygen saturation in clino- and orthostasis was 72 and 96%, respectively. The tests of pulmonary function showed significant restrictive impairments, a decrease in the vital capacity of the lungs was also determined. Ultrasound examination of the diaphragm revealed hyperechogenicity, lack of inspiratory thickening, and respiratory mobility of the domes of the diaphragm. Electromyography confirmed gross right and left phrenic nerve axonopathy. An idiopathic variant of diaphragm dysfunction can be assumed based on the patient stabilization during CPAP therapy, physiotherapy exercises, chest massage, followed by the disappearance of signs of bilateral diaphragm paralysis. Conclusion. The presented case demonstrates the difficulties of diagnosing bilateral diaphragm paralysis. The final diagnosis was made through the use of specific research methods recommended for suspected diaphragm dysfunction. The prognosis of the idiopathic variant of bilateral diaphragm paralysis, as in this case, is favorable. Spontaneous remission was observed.