Role of magnetic resonance neurography in brachial plexus lesions

Magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) is a relatively new imaging technique that is highly sensitive in detecting lesions in the peripheral nerves. We studied six cases of brachial plexopathies in which MRN played a pivotal role in making the correct diagnoses. All patients had clinical, nerve conduction, and electromyographic findings consistent with brachial plexus lesions. Four patients had brachial plexitis and two had multifocal demyelinating neuropathy presenting as brachial plexopathies. MRN in all patients showed edema, thickening, and T2 hyperintensities localized to the brachial plexus region. We conclude that MRN is a useful technique in evaluating patients with brachial plexus lesions, particularly in cases of brachial plexitis, where conventional magnetic resonance imaging is generally normal.