Radial nerve sausage-like lesion caused by viral peripheral neuropathy: A case report

Objectives

Radial nerve sausage-like lesions are rare and often poorly understood, with viral infections potentially triggering immune-mediated peripheral neuropathies. This study aims to explore the diagnostic value of ultrasound in such cases and highlight its role in managing viral-induced peripheral neuropathy.

Methods

A 36-year-old male patient with a history of RSV infection presented with impaired dorsal extension of the left hand. Ultrasound imaging was performed to assess the radial nerve, followed by surgical exploration and pathological confirmation.

Results

Ultrasound revealed localized hypoechoic thickening of the radial nerve with a characteristic “sausage-like" appearance, which correlated with intraoperative findings. Postoperative pathology, based on the evaluation of the collected soft tissue samples, confirmed the presence of nonspecific inflammatory changes suggestive of peripheral neuritis. However, no definitive nerve biopsy or detailed pathological report was available.

Discussion

This case highlights the importance of ultrasound in diagnosing viral peripheral neuropathy. Ultrasound is a non-invasive, cost-effective modality that allows dynamic monitoring of nerve changes, making it valuable for both preoperative diagnosis and postoperative follow-up. Further research is needed to explore its broader applications of ultrasound in diagnosing various forms of peripheral neuropathies and monitoring recovery after treatment.