Axonal polineuropathy associated with Sars-CoV 2 infection: a case report

Abstract

World healthcare systems are dealing with the pandemic of the severe Coronavirus disease 19 (Covid-19). Covid-19 neurological manifestations affecting both central and peripheral nervous systems have been reported. We describe the case of 44-year-old patient, who was admitted to our Rehabilitation Unit after discharge from intensive care unit for severe Covid-19 related respiratory failure. Neurophysiological investigation revealed an axonal polineuropathy with impairment both of sensory and motor component. He underwent a comprehensive rehabilitation treatment, including breathing exercises and motor rehabilitation. Despite rapid and effective diagnosis and customized progressive rehabilitation treatment, significant improvement in sensory-motor abnormalities has begun but distal complete recovery was not achieved. Indeed, complete indipendence during walking has been partially reached: patient constantly needs two sticks and wears two ankle-foot orthosis during ambulatory function. Nowadays, exploring the neurologic manifestations of Covid-19 may represent a step towards better understanding the virus, preventing longterm sequela and rehabilitation concerns.