Sonographic features in hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies

INTRODUCTION: Diagnostic nerve ultrasound is becoming more commonly used by both radiologists and clinicians. The features of different neuromuscular conditions must be described to broaden our understanding and ability to interpret findings. METHODS: Our study examines the sonographic features of 7 subjects with hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP) in comparison to 32 controls by measuring the nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) of the median, ulnar and tibial nerves. RESULTS: Significant differences (P < 0.05) in nerve size were found. The HNPP group had a larger CSA for the median nerve at the wrist and ulnar nerve at the elbow (entrapment sites), but not the forearms. The tibial nerve at the ankle was also larger in the HNPP group, suggesting possible concomitant tibial neuropathy at the ankle. CONCLUSION: These results will help shape imaging protocols to better detect conditions with non-uniform nerve enlargements.