A retrospective cohort study of idiopathic diaphragmatic palsy: a diagnostic triad, natural history and prognosis

Abstract

The diaphragm is the main inspiratory muscle, and diaphragmatic weakness can lead to respiratory failure. Diaphragmatic weakness or paralysis commonly presents in association with more generalised neuromuscular disorders. However, it can be caused by other pathologies, such as trauma, compression, infection and inflammation [1]. Isolated diaphragmatic palsy (DP) is well-described [2], but often missed in adults [3], especially in bilateral diaphragmatic palsy (BDP) where both domes of the diaphragm are elevated.

Quantitative analysis of diaphragm motion during fluoroscopic sniff test to assist in diagnosis of hemidiaphragm paralysis

“…fluoroscopic sniff test) is considered the imaging gold-standard for diagnosing unilateral diaphragm paralysis [8] . It has a diagnostic sensitivity of 90% [6] , but poor specificity [9] . During normal inspiration both diaphragms contract and descend; during the expiratory phase, the diaphragms relax and ascend.…”