Focal lesion in upper part of brachial plexus can be detected by magnetic cervical motor root stimulation.

BACKGROUND

The utilities of magnetic cervical motor root stimulation are well known for lesions in the lower part of the brachial plexus, but not for lesions in the other parts.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of paper is to show the utilities of magnetic cervical motor root stimulation for lesions in the upper part of the brachial plexus.

METHODS

We analyzed the brachial plexus using both electrical stimulation at Erb's point and magnetic cervical motor root stimulation in a patient with brachial plexopathy caused by tumor invasion.

RESULTS

On the fourth day after onset, magnetic cervical motor root stimulation revealed abnormal findings in the upper part of the brachial plexus. Two weeks after onset, needle electromyography supported the existence of the focal lesion.

CONCLUSION

Magnetic cervical motor root stimulation is useful in detecting abnormal findings in the upper part of the brachial plexus, even at the acute phase.