Updates to the Physiologic Mechanism, Anatomical Sites, and Diagnostic Utility of the Scratch Collapse Test: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: The scratch collapse test (SCT) has gained popularity as a physical examination technique for diagnosing compression neuropathy. This systematic review aims to assess the reliability of the SCT as a diagnostic tool for compression neuropathy, as well as to propose the underlying physiological mechanisms involved. Specific criteria was developed to broaden the potential anatomical applications of the SCT. Methods: A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Eleven articles meeting predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria were selected for numerical analysis, which yielded sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy values. Results: In total, 890 patients with carpal tunnel syndrome were reported in 10 studies. The mean (±SD) sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy were 0.442 ± 0.272, 0.788 ± 0.163, 0.834 ± 0.143, 0.433 ± 0.297, and 48.8% (range, 31%–82%), respectively. Of the studies that provided interrater reliability (κ), the mean was 0.544 ± 0.441, indicating moderate agreement. A total of 121 patients with cubital tunnel syndrome were reported in three studies, with a mean (±SD) sensitivity and specificity of 0.635 ± 0.367 and 0.945 ± 0.06, respectively. Twenty-four patients with peroneal nerve compression, reported in one study, had sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy of 0.77, 0.99, 0.95, 0.92, and 93%, respectively. Conclusions: Current literature indicates that the SCT can serve as a provocative test to assist in diagnosing compression neuropathy. Nevertheless, the heterogeneity of reported values underscores the necessity for further investigation aimed at enhancing the objectivity of SCT, thus improving interrater reliability and minimizing potential bias.