An almost forgotten neurological entity: man in a barrel syndrome

Abstract

Man in a barrel syndrome (MIBS) presents with bilateral upper extremity weakness but preserved strength in face, neck, and lower extremities. In this case report, two cases of MIBS were admitted to the emergency department (ED) presented. The first patient injured his neck after falling off a ladder. The second patient was a victim of a traffic accident. Bilateral upper extremity weakness was examined in the first patient at first admission to the ED. On the other hand, progressive weakness was shown in the second patient during ED follow-up. The cervical imaging findings consisted with MIBS. This case report and review of literature highlights that physicians should consider every possible cause, even the rarest ones when a patient complains of neck trauma with non-specific symptoms. Rapid identification and treatment of treatable causes such as cerebral hypoperfusion are vital for patient prognosis.