title: Adolescence peroneal neuropathy associated with rapid marked weight reduction: case report and literature review.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  We report herein an uncommon presentation of peroneal nerve palsy and possible myelopathy in an adolescent associated with marked uncontrolled weight loss during a relatively short period.
  
  
  METHODS
  He presented with left drop foot accompanied with sensory impairment at the foot dorsum. Neurophysiologic studies revealed a severe neuropathy of the left peroneal nerve with evidence of a conduction block at the left fibular head suggestive of entrapment neuropathy.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  As for the underlying etiology of acute peroneal neuropathy (PN) and possible myelopathy associated with marked weight loss, it has been suggested that rapid loss of the subcutaneous tissue may lead to entrapment of the peroneal nerve at the fibular head leading to foot drop. Body fat percentage was found remarkably low for age at 10% (normal value for age for males: 22.3%) indicative of massive rapid weight reduction markedly depleting fat stores.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  When an adolescent presents with acute foot drop, PN associated with rapid uncontrolled weight reduction should be taken into account. Prompt resumption of a balanced diet including vital nutritional ingredients may avoid permanent neurological damage and probably assist in recovery from severe flaccid weakness of the lower extremity.
authors.affiliation: Child Neurology Unit, Rambam Medical Center, Rappaport School of Medicine, Haifa, Israel. e_shahar@rambam.health.gov.il
authors.forename: Eli
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Shahar
authors.forename: Ella
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Landau
authors.forename: Jacob
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Genizi
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D020427:Peroneal Neuropathies / Q000209:etiology*; D013997:Time Factors; D015431:Weight Loss