An unusual cause of acute carpal tunnel syndrome: An undetected foreign body

Abstract

International Journal of Case Reports and Images (IJCRI) is an international, peer reviewed, monthly, open access, online journal, publishing high-quality, articles in all areas of basic medical sciences and clinical specialties.Aim of IJCRI is to encourage the publication of new information by providing a platform for reporting of unique, unusual and rare cases which enhance understanding of disease process, its diagnosis, management and clinico-pathologic correlations. Case Report: A 19-year-old male patient presented to our outpatient clinics due to symptoms of CTS. The patient had a history of hand injury with window glass. The patient was examined both in emergency department and then in family health center. In examination with palpation and X-ray graphics an undetected foreign body was found. IJCRI publishes Review Conclusion:The current report presents a case of an undetected foreign body that resulted in acute carpal tunnel syndrome, and which could be the subject of a medical malpractice lawsuit.

A Case of Penetrating Foreign Body Causing Mild Symptoms of Acute Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

“…Some studies advise for ultrasonography as a first-line imaging for radiolucent objects, while CT scan to be done in cases of complex injuries. 1 Correct localization of foreign bodies is crucial to a successful surgical retrieval. Surgical exploration followed by removal of the body is the treatment of choice.…”

“…Foreign bodies, hematomas, or mass lesions should always be excluded in patients who present with a short history of symptoms. 1…”

“…Some studies advise for ultrasonography as a first-line imaging for radiolucent objects, while CT scan to be done in cases of complex injuries. 1…”

“…The prevalence also seems to be higher in obese women. 1 In literature, trauma, foreign body, tumors, or anatomical variations are considered to be infrequent causes of CTS.…”

“…A rare form of CTS is the acute carpal tunnel syndrome (ACTS) that presents mainly after injuries to the upper extremities. 1 The patient typically acknowledges trauma to the wrist secondary to a foreign body at the time of injury. In some cases, small fragments may penetrate the wrist and remain unnoticed causing acute neurological symptoms.…”