Severe axonal motor neuropathy after heat stroke

Abstract

A 22-year-old healthy man experienced heat stroke while hiking and collapsed, resulting in multiorgan failure, cerebral edema, and prolonged intensive care unit stay. He developed flaccid tetraplegia, facial weakness, and dysphagia, and was diagnosed with severe axonal sensorimotor polyneuropathy. Rehabilitation improved dysphagia, but he remained dependent on daily activities and required assistance for transfers. The prognosis of critical illness polyneuropathy is typically good in young, healthy individuals. Peripheral neuropathy is a rare complication of heat stroke due to hyperthermia-induced neuronal injury. As global temperatures continue to rise, it is essential to recognize the potential impact of climate change on the incidence of heat stroke and to implement public health interventions to mitigate its effects.