Ischemic stroke cases presenting with hand weakness mimicking peripheral neuropathy.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neuroscience
• Stroke Medicine

Background:

• Pure motor monoparesis affecting a single extremity is an uncommon presentation of ischemic stroke.
• This condition is frequently misdiagnosed, often initially mistaken for peripheral neuropathy.

Observation:

• Three cases of isolated upper extremity monoparesis, specifically left hand weakness, are presented.
• Initial electromyography in other centers suggested peripheral neuropathy.
• Repeat electromyography in our clinic yielded normal results, prompting further investigation.

Findings:

• Cranial magnetic resonance imaging revealed ischemic infarctions correlating with the patients' symptoms.
• The study highlights the diagnostic challenge of stroke presenting as isolated monoparesis.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider pure motor monoparesis as a potential stroke symptom, even with isolated limb weakness.
• Prompt neuroradiological imaging is essential for accurate and timely diagnosis of stroke presenting with isolated monoparesis.
• This underscores the importance of considering central nervous system causes for peripheral-like symptoms.