Sensitivity of Mixed and Comparative Electrodiagnostic Methods in Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Authors

Abstract

Objective: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a prevalent mononeuropathy caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical to prevent progressive nerve damage and optimize patient outcomes. This study compared the sensitivity of mixed and comparative electrodiagnostic methods in diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, particularly in early stages, to enhance diagnostic accuracy and guide management strategies.

Methods

The comparative assessment between Median and Ulnar nerves in the Lumbrical Interossei muscles demonstrated the highest sensitivity (84.8%), followed by the Median-Ulnar fourth digit comparison (75.0%) and the Median versus Radial Digit One study (69.1%). Mixed palmar and segmental studies had lower sensitivity (61.3% and 51.9%, respectively). Conventional methods, including median motor and sensory studies, demonstrated limited accuracy (53% to 57%). Females were predominant (2.3:1 ratio), and 75% of patients had bilateral symptoms.

Results

 Among all techniques evaluated, the Median-Ulnar Lumbrical Interossei comparison demonstrated the highest sensitivity (84.8%), followed by the Median-Ulnar fourth digit comparison (75.0%) and the Median versus Radial Digit One study (69.1%). In contrast, the mixed palmar study and segmental study showed lower sensitivity (61.3% and 51.9%, respectively). Conventional electrodiagnostic approaches, including median motor and sensory studies, had limited diagnostic accuracy (53% to 57%). Females were predominate (2.3:1), and bilateral symptoms were observed in 75% of the patients.

Conclusion

 Conventional electrodiagnostic approaches have limited sensitivity in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome, particularly in cases of mild-to-moderate severity. Comparative studies, such as the Median versus Ulnar Lumbrical Interossei and Median versus Ulnar Digit Four studies, significantly improve diagnostic accuracy. Integrating these advanced methods into routine protocols is essential to minimize false-negative results and enhance early detection.

Keywords:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), Electrodiagnosis, Comparative Studies, Diagnostic Sensitivity

Published

2026/08/21

Issue

Vol. Volume 7-issue 3

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