Sural mononeuropathy: a report of 36 cases.

INTRODUCTION

Isolated sural mononeuropathy is rare and frequently constitutes a diagnostic challenge.

METHODS

This investigation was a retrospective study of sural neuropathy at a single electrodiagnostic center.

RESULTS

Our study included 36 patients with sural neuropathy, the largest sample so far reported. Non-surgical, non-traumatic etiologies account for 50% of the cases, including 7 patients with inflammatory or vasculitic conditions. Routine sural conduction study was positive in 34 of 36 patients, whereas a distal recording method was used to verify the diagnosis of sural mononeuropathy in 2 patients. Most (58%) patients did not require specific treatment, but persistent sensory symptoms were seen in a minority of cases. Sural nerve biopsy in 1 patient helped diagnostic and treatment planning.

CONCLUSIONS

Sural mononeuropathy has distinct etiologic, clinical, and electrophysiological features. Recognition can be beneficial in treating patients with sensory symptoms involving the distal lower extremity.