Carpal tunnel syndrome - clinical fact sheet and MCQ
Overview
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common compressive neuropathy of the upper limb, affecting up to 14% of the adult population. It results from compression of the median nerve as it traverses the carpal tunnel, a confined fibro-osseous space at the wrist bordered by the carpal bones dorsally and the transverse carpal ligament volarly. The syndrome predominantly affects women aged over 40 and is a leading cause of workplace disability. Up to 70% of people can have bilateral symptoms.
The primary impact of CTS stems from nocturnal paraesthesia and sensory disruption in the digits on the radial side of the hand, often associated with functional limitations in grip strength, manual dexterity, and sleep disturbance. If untreated, CTS may progress to persistent numbness, thenar atrophy, and irreversible nerve dysfunction.
Aetiology and risk factors
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Maecenas eu odio in nibh placerat tempor ac vel mauris. Nunc efficitur sapien at nisl semper dapibus. Nullam tempor eros sed dui aliquam lacinia. Nunc feugiat facilisis ex.
Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus orci luctus et ultrices posuere cubilia curae; Maecenas mauris nibh, tempus sit amet erat vel, pellentesque maximus ipsum. Suspendisse dui nunc, porta ac ultricies id, sodales eu ante.
The Medcast medical education team is a group of highly experienced, practicing GPs, health professionals and medical writers.
Become a member and get unlimited access to 100s of hours of premium education.
Learn moreMedcast Medical Education Team
Menopause can be associated with a significant impact on quality of life as well as long-term risks such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. This FastTrack fact sheet will refresh your knowledge about the diagnosis of menopause and options for management, including menopausal hormone therapy. 30mins each of RP and EA CPD available with the quiz.
Medcast Medical Education Team
Diagnosing cervical myelopathy in primary care can be challenging due to its gradual onset and symptom overlap with other neurological conditions. This FastTrack fact sheet helps to clarify the role of GPs, including red flags for referral, investigations to order, and when it’s appropriate to monitor. 30mins each of RP and EA CPD available with the quiz.
Medcast Medical Education Team
Periodontitis is related to some unexpected comorbidities, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This FastTrack describes the role of the GP in the diagnosis and management of this dental disease. Earn 30mins each of RP and EA CPD with the quiz.