Acute copper deficiency myelopathy after single-anastomosis gastric bypass

Abstract

Bariatric surgery is a well-established treatment for morbid obesity, combining both restrictive and malabsorptive mechanisms to achieve weight loss. Macro and micronutrient deficiencies are some of the most common complications of these operations, which in rare occasions can be unexpected, severe, and difficult to manage. We present a case of severe copper deficiency related myelopathy in a patient post single anastomosis gastric bypass, requiring parenteral copper replacement and eventual reversal. She presented with ascending lower limb paraesthesia and weakness, with copper levels on admission of 4 μmol/l, and ceruloplasmin 94 mg/l. She continued to have progressive neuropathy and visual deterioration, despite IV and enteral replacement, and eventually underwent reversal of her bypass, with normalization in her copper levels and incomplete improvement in symptoms. Copper deficiency myelopathy is a rare and severe complication of bariatric surgery. Early identification is key, as neurological symptoms are often not reversible.