[Neurogenic myopathies and imaging of muscle denervation].

[Neurogenic myopathies and imaging of muscle denervation].
Radiologe. 2017 Oct 17;:
Authors: Wolf M, Wolf C, Weber MA
Abstract
CLINICAL ISSUE: Neurogenic myopathies are primary diseases of the nervous system, which secondarily result in denervation of the target musculature. The spectrum of potential causes is manifold ranging from acute traumatic injuries and chronic compression to neurodegenerative, inflammatory, metabolic and neoplastic processes.
STANDARD DIAGNOSTIC METHODS: The medical history, clinical neurological examination, and electrophysiological tests including electromyography and nerve conduction studies are crucial in diagnosing neuropathic myopathies. Electromyography is the gold standard for diagnosing muscle denervation.
METHODICAL INNOVATIONS: Additional imaging methods and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in particular, are capable of contributing valuable information. The MRI examination of denervated musculature shows edema, an increase in the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and hyperperfusion. Chronic denervation results in fatty degeneration and atrophy of affected muscles, which are also detectable by MRI.
PERFORMANCE: Although the MRI findings in muscle denervation are relatively unspecific, they show a high sensitivity, comparable to electromyography. Dedicated MR neurography may often visualize the underlying lesion(s) of the innervating nerve(s).
ACHIEVEMENTS: Beside...

Source: Der Radiologe - October 17, 2017 Category: Radiology Authors: Wolf M, Wolf C, Weber MA Tags: Radiologe Source Type: research