Myotendinous pseudomasses: an imaging review.

A mass or a tumor may not always be an underlying cause for a clinically apparent swelling. A wide range of myotendinous disorders can present as pseudomasses. These include muscle/myofascial hernia, tendon tears, benign hypertrophy, accessory muscles, tendon xanthomas, diffuse myositis, and exertional compartment syndromes. We have briefly reviewed these lesions highlighting their typical radiological findings and have also highlighted the role of different imaging modalities and the role of dynamic imaging. Although rare, radiologists should be aware of these entities to avoid mislabeling a pseudomass as a mass or malignancy and to detect the abnormality in not-so-apparent masses.

Clinico-radiological review of peripheral entrapment neuropathies - Part 2 Lower limb.

PURPOSE: This review discusses the relevant anatomy, etiopathogenesis, current notions in clinical and imaging features as well as management outline of lower limb entrapment neuropathies. METHODS: The review is based on critical analysis of the current literature as well as our experience in dealing with entrapment neuropathies of the lower limb. RESULTS: The complex anatomical network of nerves supplying the lower extremities are prone to entrapment by a heterogenous group of etiologies. This leads to diverse clinical manifestations making them difficult to diagnose with traditional methods such as clinical examination and electrodiagnostic studies. Moreover, some of these may mimic other common conditions such as disc pain or fibromyalgia leading to delay in diagnosis and increasing morbidity. Addition of imaging improves the diagnostic accuracy and also help in correct treatment of these entities. Magnetic resonance imaging is very useful for deeply situated nerves in pelvis and thigh while ultrasound is well validated for superficial entrapment neuropathies. CONCLUSION: The rapidly changing concepts in these conditions accompanied by the advances in imaging has made it essential for a clinical radiologist to be well-informed with the current best practices.

Clinico-radiological review of peripheral entrapment neuropathies - Part 1 upper limb.

PURPOSE: This article aims to review the pertinent anatomy, etiopathogenesis, current clinical and radiological concepts and principles of management in case of upper limb entrapment neuropathies. METHODS: The review is based on critical analysis of the existing literature as well as our experience in dealing with entrapment neuropathies. RESULTS: Entrapment neuropathies of the upper limb peripheral nerves are common conditions that are often misdiagnosed because of their varying clinical presentations and lack of standardized diagnostic methods. Clinical assessment and electrodiagnostic studies have been the mainstay; however, imaging techniques have provided newer insights into the pathophysiology of these entities, leading to a paradigm shift in their diagnosis and management. The current best practice protocols for entrapment syndromes are constantly evolving with increasing emphasis on the role high-resolution ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging. Many imaging criteria are described and we have tried to present the most validated measurements for diagnosing entrapment neuropathies. CONCLUSION: It is imperative for a clinical radiologist to be familiar with the etiopathogenesis and clinical features of these conditions, in addition to being thorough with the anatomy and the latest imaging strategies.