Ulnar neuropathy at wrist: entrapment at a very "congested" site

Neurol Sci. 2018 Aug;39(8):1325-1331. doi: 10.1007/s10072-018-3446-7. Epub 2018 May 19.

Abstract

Ulnar tunnel syndrome indicates ulnar neuropathy at different sites within the wrist. Several classifications of ulnar tunnel syndrome are present in literature, based upon typical nerve anatomy. However, anatomical variations are not uncommon and can complicate assessment. The etiology is also complex, due to the numerous potential causes of entrapment. Clinical examination, neurophysiological testing, and imaging are all used to support the diagnosis. At present, many therapeutic approaches are available, ranging from observation to surgical management. Although ulnar neuropathy at the wrist has undergone extensive prior study, unresolved questions on diagnosis and treatment remain. In the current paper, we review relevant literature and present the current knowledge on ulnar tunnel syndrome.

Keywords: Guyon’s canal; Literature review; Nerve entrapments; Ulnar nerve; Ulnar tunnel syndrome; Wrist.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Electrophysiology
  • Humans
  • Neuroimaging
  • Ulnar Nerve / diagnostic imaging
  • Ulnar Nerve / physiopathology*
  • Ulnar Neuropathies / diagnostic imaging
  • Ulnar Neuropathies / etiology
  • Ulnar Neuropathies / pathology*
  • Ulnar Neuropathies / therapy
  • Wrist / diagnostic imaging
  • Wrist / innervation
  • Wrist / physiopathology*