Nerve conduction study and electromyography findings in patients recovering from Covid-19 - Case report

Int J Infect Dis. 2021 Feb:103:420-422. doi: 10.1016/j.ijid.2020.11.146. Epub 2020 Nov 17.

Abstract

  1. Three patients with recent sequelae after Corona Virus Disease (COVID)-19 such as fatigue and myalgia of both calves underwent electrophysiological examinations, nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG). NCS shows, as common elements, the presence of a partial or complete conduction block on several nerves, slightly prolonged latency of the tibial nerve, and rare or absent F-waves, all suggesting a demyelinating polyneuropathy due to SARS−COV-2. The short duration and low amplitude of the motor unit action potential with early full recruitment on interference pattern on EMG, typical for myopathy, suggest a direct action of COVID-19 on muscular fibers, especially in the lower limbs.

Keywords: COVID-19; Electromyography; Myopathy; Nerve conduction studies; Neuropathy; SARS−COV-2.

Publication types

  • Case Reports