Acute Brachial Radiculitis (Parsonage-Turner Syndrome)

Parsonage-Turner syndrome (PTS), also known as neuralgic amyotrophy (NA), classically presents with extreme pain, followed by weakness, atrophy, and sensory abnormalities typically affecting the upper extremities. The etiology and pathophysiology of the disorder still remain unclear but may involve a combination of genetic predisposition, mechanical stressors, and immunological factors. Diagnosis is made clinically and often requires testing including electrodiagnostics in order to exclude other causes. Although prognosis has traditionally been thought of as positive, recent evidence has shown that recovery is usually slow and incomplete, occurring over a period of months to years. Many patients are left with residual pain and or deficits interfering with daily life as well as their ability to return to work. Treatment typically includes pain control as well as an outpatient therapy program. Some claim early corticosteroid therapy may be beneficial, but studies to prove its efficacy have been lacking.