Hand pain and sensory deficits: Carpal tunnel syndrome

Abstract

There is a lack of consensus on clinical classification of CTS, especially in the absence of electrodiagnostic studies. Classifications based on clinical signs and symptoms alone or combined with electrodiagnostic studies are largely based on anecdotal evidence, expert consensus, or the pathophysiology of nerve compression and lack independent validation. According to evidence presented, the frequency of symptoms (mild demonstrating more intermittent symptoms and moderate demonstrating more constant symptoms) seems to be a factor that distinguishes mild from moderate CTS, and thenar muscle atrophy is the clinical sign that distinguishes patients with severe CTS from those with mild or moderate disease.