Carpal tunnel syndrome

• Published in: Przeglad lekarski Vol. 61; no. 2; p. 120
• Main Authors: Banach, Marta, Gryz, Elzbieta A, Szczudlik, Andrzej
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Polish
• Published: Poland 2004
• Subjects: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome - diagnosis; Carpal Tunnel Syndrome - physiopathology; Carpal Tunnel Syndrome - therapy; Diagnosis, Differential; Electrodiagnosis; Humans; Hypesthesia - etiology; Median Nerve - physiopathology; Paresthesia - etiology
• ISSN: 0033-2240

The name of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) refers to a complex of symptoms resulting from the pressure exerted on the median nerve in the carpal tunnel area [81]. In most cases, it is not possible to establish CTS causes, and we diagnose idiopathic CTS. CTS is the most frequent pressure neuropathy. Typical clinical symptoms include sensory effects in the forms of pain paresthesia or hypesthesia, limited to the wrist area innervated by the median nerve, presence if Tinel's symptoms, or a positive Phalen's test. In more advance cases, doctors find motor symptoms displayed by difficulties in the performance of precise activities, grasp weakness or thenar muscle atrophy. In some patients, we observe autonomous symptoms, e.g. skin perspiration disorders (dry skin on thumb, index and middle fingers), or vasomotor disorders. The most essential for diagnosis confirmation are electrophysiological examinations, which evaluate the median nerve functions. Sometimes, imaging techniques are useful, e.g. ultrasound, MRI and CTS scanning of the wrist. The most effective form of idiopathic treatment of CTS is surgery.