Compressive Neuropathy of the Deep Peroneal Nerve due to a Ganglion Cyst: The Importance of Early Diagnosis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25759/spmfr.520Abstract
A ganglion cyst is a cystic lesion with mucinous content, most commonly found in the wrist and hand, while the ankle and foot account for about 11% of all cases. A 63-year-old woman presented to a Physiatry clinic four months after undergoing arthrodesis of the first toe of the right foot in February, with no improvement. She complained of burning sensation and paresthesia in the first toe, without radiating pain. On examination, a positive Tinel’s sign was elicited proximal to the tibiotalar joint. Ultrasound revealed a cyst adjacent to the sheath of the extensor digitorum longus tendon compressing the deep peroneal nerve. Ultrasound-guided aspiration was performed, yielding 2 cc of gelatinous fluid. After the procedure, the neuropathic pain resolved. At 7 and 30 days of follow-up, the patient remained symptom-free. Early characterization of the pain using neuropathic descriptors and a more thorough investigation of its underlying cause might have led to a faster resolution of the problem.Downloads
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