Abstract
Radiation therapy of the neck or axillary areas for cancer may result in delayed brachial plexus palsy. Differential diagnosis between radiation and tumor brachial plexopathy is difficult. We report the case of a 38-year-old woman, treated by radiation therapy for osteosarcoma of the humeral head 22 years before, who exhibited a rapidly progressive incomplete hand palsy. EMG study revealed a conduction block at the level of the lateral cord. In this case, MRI could not distinguish between a delayed radiation injury and tumor infiltration. The diagnosis was clarified with an ultrasonographic examination. Neurolysis and epineurotomy of the median trunk in the brachial and axillary areas were performed. Histological examination confirmed radiation-induced nerve injury. The characteristics of this uncommon form are reviewed with regard to the previously reported descriptions.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.