Abstract
Supracondylar apophysis (SA) is a bony prominence that originates from the anteromedial
aspect of the distal humerus with a lower projection and which, although usually asymptomatic,
due to the relationship with adjacent structures can cause symptoms. We describe the
case of a 42-year-old woman with pain complaints radiating from her elbow to her hand,
with 6 months of evolution. On objective examination, the patient had a sensory deficit
in the median nerve territory and decreased grip strength. Radiographs of the distal
humerus were performed, in which a bone spike was visible, and magnetic resonance
imaging showed thickening of the median nerve epineurium. Electromyography showed
severe axonal demyelination of the median nerve proximal to the elbow. A median nerve
compression caused by a SA was diagnosed. The patient underwent surgery and, 1 year
after the operation, she had a complete clinical recovery. Supracondylar apophysis
is a rare, but possible and treatable cause of high median nerve compression.
Keywords
supracondylar apophysis - median nerve - compressive neuropathy - median nerve compression
