J Electrodiagn Neuromuscul Dis.  2021 Apr;23(1):34-39. 10.18214/jend.2020.00136.

Successful Recovery of Peripheral Polyneuropathy from Non-Freezing Cold Injury: A Case Report

• Lee J
• Kim S
• Lee JI
• Nam KE

• KMID: 2526172
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.18214/jend.2020.00136

Abstract

Non-freezing cold injury (NFCI) results from prolonged exposure to wet conditions at temperatures near or just above the freezing point. The clinically reported signs of NFCI are mostly sensory symptoms. In this case report, we present a young healthy woman who was presumed to have developed cold-induced peripheral polyneuropathy following whole-body exposure to cold temperatures for at least 48 hours. Our patient showed severe peripheral polyneuropathy in the lower extremities during the initial nerve conduction study and electromyography. The findings were consistent with her clinical symptoms of tingling sensation and gait disturbance. Serial electrodiagnostic studies demonstrated gradual improvement and eventually normalization. Her clinical symptoms also significantly improved over several weeks of comprehensive rehabilitation. NFCI is a rare condition, and its pathophysiology and clinical course remain unclear. Nonetheless, it shows a reversible pattern early after the injury, and early diagnosis and treatment are required.

Keyword

Peripheral neuropathy; Cold injury; Polyneuropathies