Ein Sportschwimmer mit Atemnot

Summary A competition swimmer with dyspnoea Neuralgic amyotrophy is a rare inflammatory disorder of the brachial plexus mainly affecting young men. Initial pain in the shoulder girdle may be followed by atrophy of shoulder muscles and sudden-onset dyspnoea if the diaphragm is bilaterally affected. Dyspnoea is exacerbated when lying flat, when swimming or bending. Patients are often diagnosed late, with pulmonary function tests showing a restrictive pattern. Measurement of a drop in vital capacity when lying flat as compared to the sitting position, and a decrease in maximum inspiratory pressure are essential. The prognosis is generally good, with slow recovery of the phrenic nerve over several months to years. If the symptoms persist, surgery involving plication of the diaphragm may be considered.