Brachial and lumbosacral plexopathies: A review

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Clinical Neurophysiology

Background:

• Brachial and lumbosacral plexopathies are uncommon and diagnostically challenging conditions.
• Non-specific clinical features often mimic other neurological disorders, necessitating a high index of suspicion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical features, electrodiagnostic (EDX) approaches, and evaluation/treatment strategies for brachial and lumbosacral plexopathies.
• To highlight the importance of a comprehensive clinical evaluation and diagnostic testing.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical features, diagnostic tests (including electrodiagnostic studies, neuroimaging, serologic, and genetic testing), and treatment modalities.
• Emphasis on the role of electrodiagnostic testing in confirming plexopathies and determining localization, pathophysiology, chronicity, severity, and prognosis.

Main Results:

• Electrodiagnostic (EDX) testing is vital for confirming plexopathies and providing detailed diagnostic information.
• A thorough and individualized approach combining clinical assessment and various diagnostic tests is essential for accurate diagnosis and management.

Conclusions:

• Effective management of plexopathies requires accurate diagnosis, often confirmed by EDX studies.
• Treatment strategies range from symptomatic management to targeted therapies based on the underlying etiology.