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Intercostal nerve mononeuropathy: study of 14 cases
Paulo Sergio S dos Santos1, Luiz Antonio Lima Resende, Ronaldo G Fonseca
1Service of Anesthesiology, Botucatu School of Medicine, Unesp, Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
Arquivos De Neuro-Psiquiatria
|November 1, 2005
Summary
Intercostal nerve mononeuropathy (INM) affects patients with thoracic pain. Trauma and infection are key causes, with thoracic surgery and post-herpetic neuropathy being most common.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pain Management
Background:
- Intercostal nerve mononeuropathy (INM) is a condition causing thoracic pain.
- Electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic tool for nerve disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the characteristics and etiologies of intercostal nerve mononeuropathy.
- To identify common causes and treatments for INM.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 14 INM cases from 5,560 EMG exams (1991-2004).
- Analysis of medical charts for patients with thoracic pain and INM diagnosis.
Main Results:
- INM was diagnosed in 14 patients.
- Common causes included thoracic surgery (43%), post-herpetic neuropathy (28%), and intercostal neuritis (14%).
- Trauma and infection were identified as primary etiologies.
Conclusions:
- Thoracic surgery and infection are significant causes of INM.
- Tricyclic antidepressants and anticonvulsants are frequently used for treatment.