Is superficial radial nerve affected in patients with hand osteoarthritis?

Abstract

Introduction: Patients with superficial radial neuropathy (SRN) have pain and abnormal sensation on the hand similar to hand osteoarthritis (HOA).

Purpose of the study: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the presence of SRN in patients with HOA and to determine the factors associated with electrophysiological parameters of the radial nerve.

Study design: This is a case-control study.

Methods: A total of 138 patients were included in this study. Only the dominant hand of each patient was evaluated. Patients were divided into 2 groups: Group 1 (without SRN) or Group 2 (with SRN) by electrophysiological examination. The presence of osteoarthritis in the first carpometacarpal (1st CMC) joint was investigated. Radiological features of the hands were evaluated with Kellgren-Lawrence grading system. Sonographically, the presence of synovitis in the 1st CMC joint was examined with gray scale and synovial blood flow signal by power Doppler imaging. Erosion and osteophyte scoring were performed for 15 joints. The 1st extensor compartment of wrist's cross-sectional area was measured.

Results: SRN was detected in 68.8% of the patients. High Kellgren-Lawrence scores (P = .027), presence of synovitis in the 1st CMC joint (P = .003), and increased cross-sectional area of the 1st extensor compartment of wrist (P = .005) were found to be independent risk factors for reduced superficial radial nerve conduction velocity.

Conclusions: Sensory symptoms in patients with HOA might be due to the involvement of the superficial branch of the radial nerve.

Keywords: Electrophysiology; Hand osteoarthritis; Superficial radial nerve; Ultrasound.