The Utility of Ultrasound in Identifying Carpal Tunnel Syndrome among Individuals with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine for Boys, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt

10.21608/aimj.2025.446615

Abstract

Background: The most prevalent form of entrapment neuropathy globally is carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), and its frequency in people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is similar to that of the general population.
Aim and Objectives: The purpose of this research is to assess how well ultrasonography performs as a CTS diagnostic tool in lupus patients.
Patients and Methods: Sixty SLE patients were included in the study and divided into two groups. Thirty individuals in one group had clinical symptoms of CTS, while thirty patients in the other group did not. Every participant had a comprehensive examination that included electrodiagnostic tests, clinical assessments, and ultrasonographic scanning.
Results: Higher disease activity scores, aberrant nerve conduction study (NCS) results, and a significant increase in the median nerve's cross-sectional area (CSA) as shown by ultrasonography at the carpal tunnel entry were all seen in patients with SLE and CTS. For different CSA cutoff values, the best sensitivity (93.33%) and specificity (100%) were observed at 10.5 mm².
Conclusion: In individuals with lupus who exhibit classic symptoms of CTS, ultrasonography may offer a rapid and accurate method of making the diagnosis.

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