Basics With the Experts-CoursebookBasics With the Experts

CoursebookBasics With the Experts

Pdf Summary

This document discusses the basics of evaluating patients with suspected radiculopathy using electrodiagnostic (EDX) testing. It provides guidelines for assessing radiculopathy, including the need for needle examination (NE) and motor and sensory nerve conduction studies (NCS). The document emphasizes the importance of performing EMG on weak muscles to increase the diagnostic yield. It concludes that EDX testing should not be avoided based on normal physical examination findings and that clinicians should not overcall radiculopathy based on subtle findings.<br /><br />Electrodiagnostic (EDX) studies play a crucial role in diagnosing and localizing the underlying pathology when assessing patients with neuromuscular weakness. Sensory and motor nerve conduction studies (NCSs) help assess the number of functional sensory and motor axons and can provide insights into the myelination status of the nerve. F-waves can be used to assess the integrity of anterior horn cells in the spinal cord. EDX studies help confirm clinical hypotheses and should always be performed in conjunction with a clinical history and examination.<br /><br />Polyneuropathy is characterized by damage to multiple peripheral nerves and can have various causes such as diabetes, alcohol abuse, vitamin deficiencies, connective tissue diseases, medications, and exposure to certain agents. Inherited neuropathies can also cause polyneuropathy. Diagnosis involves a medical history, physical examination, laboratory, and electrodiagnostic testing. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause.

Keywords

radiculopathy

electrodiagnostic testing

needle examination

motor nerve conduction studies

sensory nerve conduction studies

EMG

diagnostic yield

neuromuscular weakness

polyneuropathy

treatment options

electromyography