A 62-Year-Old Hospitalized Woman Is Evaluated for Muscle Weakness

A 62-year-old hospitalized woman is evaluated for muscle weakness.  The patient was admitted 2 weeks ago due to septic shock from acute pyelonephritis.  She was treated in the intensive care unit with intravenous fluids, vasopressors, and broad-spectrum antibiotics.  The patient was also mechanically ventilated due to respiratory failure.  Her hemodynamic status and infection gradually improved, but she has had difficulty being taken off the ventilator due to respiratory muscle weakness.  She is also noted to have significant extremity weakness.  Physical examination shows diffuse mild atrophy of the extremity muscles.  Bilateral upper and lower extremity deep tendon reflexes are decreased.  Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's current condition?

A) Corticospinal tract demyelination
B) Motor cortex ischemic injury
C) Motor endplate receptor loss
D) Myofiber lymphocytic inflammation
E) Peripheral nerve axonal degeneration

Correct Answer:

Verified

Unlock this answer now
Get Access to more Verified Answers free of charge

Access For Free