Carpal tunnel biopsy
Carpal tunnel syndrome is becoming more frequently recognized and may be occurring more often. It may result from repetitive motion or the use of devices like computer keyboards. It affects the median nerve, the nerve that supplies feeling and movement to the thumb and “thumb-side” of the hand.
Also known as: Biopsy - carpal tunnel
- Bleeding
- Damage to the nerve in this area
- Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
Definition
Carpal tunnel biopsy is a test in which a small piece of tissue is removed from the carpal tunnel (part of the wrist).
How the test is performed
The skin of your wrist is scrubbed and injected with medicine that numbs the area. Through a small cut, a sample of tissue is removed from the carpal tunnel. This is done by direct removal of tissue or by needle aspiration.
Sometimes this procedure is performed at the time of carpal tunnel release.
How to prepare for the test
Your doctor may ask that you not eat anything for a few hours before the test.
How the test will feel
You may feel some stinging or burning when the numbing medicine is injected. You may also feel some pressure or tugging during the procedure. Afterward, the area may be tender or sore for a few days.
Why the test is performed
This test is usually done to rule out a condition called amyloidosis.
Normal Values
No abnormal tissues are found.
What abnormal results mean
An abnormal result is a sign of amyloidosis.
What the risks are
Special considerations
If the carpal tunnel biopsy reveals a problem, your health care provider may suggest a carpal tunnel release procedure. Additional surgery to correct or improve the problem may be recommended.
References
Rajkumar SV, Dispenzieri A. Multiple myeloma and related disorders. In: Abeloff MD, Armitage JO, Niederhuber JE, Kastan MB, McKenna WG, eds. Abeloff’s Clinical Oncology. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2008:chap 110.
See also:
-
Disease
Primary amyloidosis
Primary amyloidosis is a disorder in which protein fibers are deposited in tissues and organs, harming them.
-
Disease
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is pressure on the median nerve — the nerve in the wrist that supplies feeling and movement to parts of the hand. It can lead to numbness, tingling, weakness, or muscle damage in the hand and fingers. See also:
- Review date:
- July 28, 2010
- Reviewed by:
- Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Assistant Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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