학술논문

True neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome in a competitive swimmer: a case report of this rare association
Document Type
article
Source
Arquivos de Neuro-Psiquiatria. December 2007 65(4b)
Subject
thoracic outlet syndrome
swimming
brachial plexopathy
Language
English
ISSN
0004-282X
Abstract
True neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is an uncommon disorder despite of be a frequent reason for referral to the EMG laboratories. We describe the second case in the literature of true TOS in a competitive swimmer with progressive weakness and severe atrophy of the left thenar eminence. EMG showed lower trunk plexopathy. X-ray and MRI of the cervical spine and brachial plexus were normal. Surgical exploration evidenced the lower trunk retracted and pulled by a fibrous band. It was excised and neurolysis of the plexus was done with gradual improvement of function. We discuss the possible pathophysiology of this association.