Upper extremity neuropathies

Abstract

This chapter covers the electrodiagnostic (EDX) evaluation of upper extremity nerves and the brachial plexus. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common peripheral nerve disorder of the upper extremity. A number of techniques are used but there is no gold standard approach for its diagnosis. Needle EMG aids in the differentiation of proximal and distal median neuropathies. Ulnar neuropathy at the elbow and ulnar neuropathy at or distal to the wrist can be distinguished by EDX techniques. Radial neuropathy at the spiral groove has a specific EDX pattern. EDX assessment of proximal upper extremity nerve lesions such as brachial plexopathy is a valuable tool for exploring the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of this complex disorder.

Keywords: Brachial plexopathy; Carpal tunnel syndrome; Electrodiagnostic evaluation; Needle EMG; Nerve conduction studies; Neuropathy at the elbow; Radial neuropathy; UInar.