Early radial digital neuropathy of the thumb due to flexor pollicis longus tendinitis: value of ultrasound in an uncommon mild neuropathy.

INTRODUCTION

A 50-year-old man developed intermittent paresthesia of the outer portion of the right thumb. Paresthesia increased with thumb abduction and flexion. The remainder of the physical examination was normal.

METHODS

Routine motor and sensory examinations of the median and ulnar nerves were within normal ranges.

RESULTS

Ultrasonographic studies revealed that a tenosynovitis of the flexor pollicis longus of the right thumb was compressing the radial digital nerve of the thumb.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasonographic evaluation was used in conjunction with nerve conduction studies to diagnose digital neuropathy. Ultrasound is a beneficial, complementary tool to electrodiagnostic studies, especially for uncommon focal neuropathies.