Ann Rehabil Med.  2014 Apr;38(2):286-291.

Magnetic Resonance Neurographic Findings in Classic Idiopathic Neuralgic Amyotrophy in Subacute Stage: A Report of Four Cases

• Park MS
• Kim DH
• Sung DH

Abstract

Neuralgic amyotrophy (NA) is characterized by acute onset of severe pain, followed by muscular weakness and wasting of the shoulder girdle. While the diagnosis of NA mainly relies on the clinical history and examination, some investigations including electrophysiologic study and radiologic study may help to confirm the diagnosis. Magnetic resonance neurography (MRN), a new technique for the evaluation of peripheral nerve disorders, can be helpful in the diagnosis of NA. MRN presents additional benefits in comparison to conventional magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of idiopathic NA (INA). In this report, we present the first four cases of classic INA diagnosed with MRN in subacute stage. MRN imaging modality should be considered in patients clinically suspected of INA.

Keyword

Neuralgic amyotrophy; Idiopathic brachial plexus neuritis; Magnetic resonance neurography

MeSH Terms

Brachial Plexus Neuritis*
Diagnosis
Humans
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Muscle Weakness
Peripheral Nerves
Shoulder

Figure

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  Fig. 1 The high signal intensity from the postganglionic right C5 (small arrows) and C6 (arrowheads) root to the level of cord (large arrows) in the coronal T2 short-tau inversion recovery image.

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  Fig. 2 (A) The high signal intensity from the postganglionic right C5 and C6 root (small arrows) in the coronal T2 short-tau inversion recovery image. (B) The increased signal from the right C5 and C6 root (small arrows) to the level of cord (large arrow) in diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance neurography.

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  Fig. 3 The high signal intensity in the postganglionic right C5 and C6 root area (arrows) in the coronal T2 short-tau inversion recovery image.

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  Fig. 4 (A) The high signal intensity from pre- and post-ganglionic left C5 root to the area of the upper trunk formation in the coronal T2 short-tau inversion recovery image (arrows). (B) Enhancement of the C5 root sheath in the axial T1 gadolinium enhancement image (arrow).

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