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MRI of brachial plexopathies

J Sureka1, R A Cherian, M Alexander

  • 1Department of Radiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India. drjyoticmch@rediffmail.com

Clinical Radiology
|December 24, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is crucial for diagnosing brachial plexus conditions. Advanced MRI techniques improve the detection and characterization of nerve and surrounding pathologies, aiding in accurate diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Neurology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the leading method for evaluating brachial plexus disorders.
  • MRI aids in identifying, locating, and characterizing the causes of brachial plexus pathology.
  • Advancements in MRI techniques enhance the detection of subtle nerve signal changes and perineural abnormalities.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the visualization of brachial plexus abnormalities using MRI.
  • To highlight the role of MRI in diagnosing various brachial plexus pathologies.

Main Methods:

  • Review of 26 cases involving brachial plexus abnormalities visualized by MRI.
  • Analysis of MRI findings in relation to traumatic and non-traumatic causes.

Main Results:

  • MRI effectively identifies nerve signal intensity changes, enhancement patterns, and perineural pathology.
  • The study reviewed a range of causes including trauma, idiopathic/viral plexitis, metastases, immune-mediated plexitis, and mass lesions.

Conclusions:

  • MRI is essential for diagnosing brachial plexus pathology.
  • Improved MRI techniques refine differential diagnoses for a spectrum of brachial plexus conditions.

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