Musculocutaneous nerve palsy following traumatic spinal cord injury

Abstract

Study Design: Case report of isolated musculocutaneous nerve lesion after an acute thoracic spinal cord injury. To our knowledge, this is the only reported case of isolated musculocutaneous nerve palsy associated with an acute spinal cord injury. Objectives: To determine the possible mechanisms of this isolated lesion. Also, to confirm the clinical diagnosis with a properly planned electrodiagnostic study. The differential diagnosis is considered.

Summary of Data: A comprehensive literature search was completed. Musculocutaneous lesions can be the result of heavy physical activity, shoulder subluxation, operative shoulder procedures, and intraoperative arm positioning. Isolated sensory lesions may be caused by carrying a heavy purse or phlebotomy.

Conclusions: Intraoperative, position, traction injury and premorbid physical activity may be implicated in this patients nerve palsy.