Supracondylar Apophysis of the Humerus: Rare Cause of High Compression of the Median Nerve

Abstract

Abstract Supracondylar apophysis (SA) is a bony prominence that originates from the anteromedial aspect of the distal humerus with a lower projection and which, although usually asymptomatic, due to the relationship with adjacent structures can cause symptoms. We describe the case of a 42-year-old woman with pain complaints radiating from her elbow to her hand, with 6 months of evolution. On objective examination, the patient had a sensory deficit in the median nerve territory and decreased grip strength. Radiographs of the distal humerus were performed, in which a bone spike was visible, and magnetic resonance imaging showed thickening of the median nerve epineurium. Electromyography showed severe axonal demyelination of the median nerve proximal to the elbow. A median nerve compression caused by a SA was diagnosed. The patient underwent surgery and, 1 year after the operation, she had a complete clinical recovery. Supracondylar apophysis is a rare, but possible and treatable cause of high median nerve compression.

Keywords

• supracondylar apophysis
• median nerve
• compressive neuropathy
• median nerve compression