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Brachial plexus neuropathy
Cervical rib syndrome is the compression of the C8 and T1 roots or the lower trunk of the brachial plexus by a cervical rib or band arising from the seventh cervical vertebra
Lumbosacral plexus lesions may develop
In association with diabetes, cancer, or bleeding disorders
After injury
Occasionally without known cause
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MRI helpful in revealing underlying compressive structure
Radiographic films and CT scans
Electrodiagnostic evaluation helps localize a lesion and is important for differential diagnosis
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Symptomatic for brachial plexus neuropathy
Surgical excision of the rib or band in cervical rib syndrome
Physical therapy and adequate analgesia are especially important in idiopathic cases
Treat underlying cause