title: [Idiopathic bilateral paralysis of the diaphragm].
abstract: The case of a 38-year old Caucasian man with acute irreversible idiopathic bilateral paralysis of the diaphragm is presented. The relevant diagnostic procedures are discussed. Paralysis of diaphragm during fluoroscopy in the supine position, observation of paradoxical movement of the anterior abdominal wall and upright position during sleep are the major characteristics of this condition. Elevation of both hemidiaphragms on thoracic X-ray during maximal inspiration, lack of phrenic nerve conduction, gradually increasing dyspnoea without ongoing infection or simultaneous vaccination and decreased functional status may further confirm the diagnosis.
authors.affiliation: Gentofte, medicinsk/lungemedicinsk afdeling Y, Københavns Amts Sygehus.
authors.forename: I E
authors.initials: IE
authors.lastname: Steffensen
authors.forename: G W
authors.initials: GW
authors.lastname: Grode
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011859:Radiography; D012133:Respiratory Paralysis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology