Quantitative sonographic evaluation of muscle thickness and fasciculation prevalence in healthy subjects

In the current study, we aimed to determine normative values for muscle thickness and fasciculation prevalence in healthy subjects.

We performed a prospective study from October to December 2018 in 65 healthy subjects. All subjects underwent quantitative sonographic evaluation of muscle thickness and fasciculation prevalence in the following 8 muscles: Biceps brachii, abductor pollicis brevis, first dorsal interosseous, abductor digiti minimi, quadriceps, tibialis anterior, extensor digitorum brevis, and abductor hallucis brevis.

Subject ages ranged from 21 to 82 years, with 63% women. Normative values for muscle thickness were determined using the fifth percentile. Multivariate regression analysis showed that sex, age, body mass index, and hand dominance affected muscle thickness. Fasciculations were observed frequently only in distal muscles.

Normal values for muscle thickness were determined, and may enhance neuromuscular ultrasound sensitivity and serve as a basis for future studies. Larger series are needed to confirm these values.