A Rare Case of Parsonage–Turner Syndrome Involving Only the Radial Nerve

Authors

  • Carolina Pereira e Carvalho Unidade Local de Saúde (ULS) do Alto Minho https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3591-7340
  • Mafalda Guimarães Unidade Local de Saúde São João https://orcid.org/0009-0007-6148-0270
  • Goreti Nadais Departamento de Neurologia, Unidade Local de Saúde de São João
  • André Cruz Serviço de Medicina Física e de Reabilitação, Unidade Local de Saúde do Alto Minho
  • Andreia Costa Departamento de Neurologia, Unidade Local de Saúde de São João, Porto, Portugal; Departamento de Neurociências e de Saúde Mental, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25759/spmfr.536

Abstract

Parsonage-Turner Syndrome, also known as idiopathic brachial plexopathy or amyotrophic neuralgia, is a rare condition characterized by sudden, severe shoulder pain followed by progressive neurological deficits. This case report aims to highlight an atypical presentation of Parsonage-Turner Syndrome involving the radial nerve exclusively. A 61-year-old right-handed male presented with non-traumatic right shoulder pain evolving over 7 months, followed by paresthesias and sudden loss of wrist and finger extension strength. Electrodiagnostic studies showed recent partial axonal (motor and sensory) injury of the right radial nerve. He was diagnosed with Parsonage-Turner Syndrome based on clinical history and electrophysiological findings and commenced rehabilitation. After two months of rehabilitation, there was significant improvement in wrist and finger extensor strength and hand functionality. This case underscores the importance of considering Parsonage-Turner Syndrome in patients with unexplained upper limb weakness and the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach in managing this condition.

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References

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Published

2026-05-31

How to Cite

1.
Pereira e Carvalho C, Guimarães M, Nadais G, Cruz A, Costa A. A Rare Case of Parsonage–Turner Syndrome Involving Only the Radial Nerve. SPMFR [Internet]. 2026 May 31 [cited 2026 Jun. 1];38(1):51-3. Available from: https://spmfrjournal.org/index.php/spmfr/article/view/536

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Section

Case Report