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Med. Pr. 2005;56(2)

Contribution of occupational and non-occupational factors in the pathogenesis of carpal tunnel syndrome

Udział czynników zawodowych i pozazawodowych w etiopatogenezie zespołu cieśni nadgarstka

Jolanta Biernawska, Adam Niemczyk, Krystyna Pierzchała Z Katedry i Kliniki Neurologii śląskiej Akademii Medycznej w Zabrzu

Abstract

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome, involving the median nerve, is the most frequent compressive neuropathy. The aim of the study was to determine the influence of occupational and health factors on carpal tunnel syndrome development. Materialsand Methods: The group of patients comprised 271 persons (209 professionally active) who visited the EMG Service with suspected carpal tunnel syndrome. Almost 10% of them suffered from diabetes. Results: On the basis of clinical and neurographic investigations a higher prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome was found in blue collar workers and in women. Conclusions: In the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome, Phalenśs test and neurography of the median nerve are of similar value.

Key words

carpal tunnel syndrome, neurography, occupation, Phalenśs test, diabetes