Unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis and Erb's Palsy in the newborn

Abstract

Intermittent rapid breathing in a 16-day-old infant with Erb's palsy led to the radiological diagnosis of right diaphragmatic paralysis. During the remaining 31 days of life respiratory distress increased and evidence of pulmonary collapse appeared. At necropsy avulsion of the anterior roots of the cervical nerves supplying the right phrenic nerve was found. Adrenal calcification following old haemorrhage was also present. Previously described necropsy records are reviewed.