Use of hand diagrams in screening for ulnar neuropathy: comparison with electrodiagnostic studies

Abstract

Introduction: The objective of this study was to determine whether a hand diagram could be used to predict ulnar mononeuropathy.

Methods: This was a prospective study of 117 consecutive patients referred for hand symptoms. Each subject filled out a hand diagram of symptoms and had median and ulnar sensory and motor nerve conduction studies, including ulnar conduction across the elbow.

Results: The best model for predicting an ulnar mononeuropathy included hand diagram scores of definite or possible. The model had a sensitivity of 50% and specificity of 93% with an ROC area of 0.90.

Conclusions: The ulnar hand diagram scoring system can be useful as a screening tool in the electrodiagnostic laboratory or for epidemiologic studies.