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Hypertrophic brachial plexus neuritis: a pathological study of two cases
M D Cusimano1, J M Bilbao, S M Cohen
1Department of Pathology, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Annals of Neurology
|November 1, 1988
Summary
Recurrent brachial plexus neuropathy can manifest as painful cervical masses. This condition may stem from localized chronic inflammation, potentially linked to autoimmune disorders or viral infections.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pathology
Background:
- Brachial plexus neuropathy can present with recurrent symptoms.
- Some cases culminate in painful lower cervical masses.
Observation:
- Macroscopic examination revealed fusiform segmental nerve enlargement, mimicking nerve sheath tumors.
- Histology showed endoneurial edema, chronic inflammation, onion bulb formation, and perineurial sparing.
- Electron microscopy identified microvasculitis and specific cellular inclusions.
Findings:
- The observed histological features suggest a localized chronic inflammatory process.
- Microvasculitis and unique cellular inclusions were noted in electron microscopy.
Implications:
- Recurrent brachial plexus neuropathy may be an inflammatory condition.
- Autoimmunity or viral infection are potential underlying causes.
- This finding aids in understanding the pathogenesis of brachial plexus neuropathy.