Peripheral Neuropathy in Ulcerative Colitis: A Case Report

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) were systemic disorders involving many organ systems. Besides intestinal manifestations, extra intestinal manifestations (EIMs) including neurologic complications have been reported among 6%-40% of IBD patients.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) was a subtype of IBD only affecting the colonic mucosa and sub mucosa. Although the EIMs of UC could affect any organ system, central and peripheral neurological manifestations were relatively rare.

Here, we described a case of UC and concurrent primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) who complained about paresthesia and weakness of his upper and lower limbs for the past two months. Through physical examination revealed decreased muscle tone in his legs and arms. Electrophysiological studies were compatible with the diagnosis of chronic mixed polyneuropathy which improved after administration of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and the patient was discharged in good general condition.

Although both immunologic and non-immunologic mechanisms we considered to play a role in development of neuropathies, further investigations were still required to accurately understand the underlying mechanism.