Clinical Application of Ultrasonography in Peripheral Neuropathies

Abstract

Peripheral neuropathies are very diverse in etiology, pathogenesis, and clinical manifestations. The electrodiagnostic studies have been the most fundamental and important for diagnosis and classification of peripheral neuropathies. However, the electrodiagnostic studies cannot provide anatomical and structural information. Ultrasound can provide valuable information about pathologic changes of nerves and surrounding tissues and structural abnormalities. Due to the recent development of high resolution ultrasound, nerve ultrasound has been emerging as a promising tool for diagnosing and deciding on therapeutic strategies. This review focuses on the role of ultrasound in peripheral neuropathies. Key words: Ultrasound; Peripheral nervous system diseases; Peripheral nerves; Nerve compression syndromes; Polyneuropathies