Carpal tunnel syndrome related to work on computer

Abstract

Introduction: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a collection of characteristic symptoms and signs that occurs following compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel. The prevalence of electrophysiologically confirmed CTS in working populations is generally higher than in the general population. The aim was to present association between carpal tunnel syndrome and the excessive use of computer mouse and keyboard in young adult with presence of Martin-Gruber anastomosis.

Case report: We presented the development of carpal tunnel syndrome in 17-year-old male, following the repetitive movement of the right wrist, due to excessive use of the computer mouse and keyboard. During the neurological examination, we found pronounced hypotrophy of the first interosseous dorsalis space (weakness of m. adductor pollicis), and mild hypotrophy of the thenar muscle. Nerve conduction velocities of n. ulnaris and n. medianus on the right hand were normal, but with prolonged value of distal latency on the n.medianus, which indicates the presence of coexisting Martin - Gruber anastomosis (communication branch from n. medianus to n. ulnaris).

Conclusion: Up to date evidence of studies were insufficient to conclude that computer work (mouse and keyboard) causes CTS. But it is certain that the presence of MGA, in this case of CTS, lead to partial sparing of thenar muscles, and caused hypotrophy of the first interosseous dorsalis muscle, innervated by the ulnar nerve.