Anterior interosseous syndrome

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Anterior interosseous syndrome
Synonyms Kiloh-Nevin syndrome
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Weakness of the thumb, index finger, and middle finger; difficulty with pinch grip
Complications Muscle atrophy
Onset Sudden or gradual
Duration Variable
Types N/A
Causes Nerve compression, trauma, inflammation
Risks Repetitive strain, injury
Diagnosis Clinical examination, nerve conduction study, electromyography
Differential diagnosis Carpal tunnel syndrome, pronator teres syndrome
Prevention N/A
Treatment Physical therapy, splinting, surgery
Medication N/A
Prognosis Good with treatment
Frequency Rare
Deaths N/A


A neuropathy affecting the anterior interosseous nerve


Anterior interosseous syndrome (AIS) is a medical condition characterized by the impairment of the anterior interosseous nerve, a branch of the median nerve. This condition results in weakness of the muscles innervated by this nerve, leading to specific functional deficits in the hand and forearm.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The anterior interosseous nerve is a motor branch of the median nerve that originates in the forearm. It supplies the flexor pollicis longus, the lateral half of the flexor digitorum profundus, and the pronator quadratus. These muscles are responsible for flexion of the thumb and index finger, as well as pronation of the forearm.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Anterior interosseous syndrome can be caused by various factors, including:

  • Trauma: Direct injury to the forearm can damage the anterior interosseous nerve.
  • Compression: The nerve may be compressed by anatomical structures such as the pronator teres muscle or fibrous bands.
  • Inflammation: Conditions such as neuritis can lead to inflammation and subsequent dysfunction of the nerve.
  • Iatrogenic: Surgical procedures in the forearm region may inadvertently affect the nerve.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The primary symptoms of anterior interosseous syndrome include:

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of anterior interosseous syndrome is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic motor deficits. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies can be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of nerve involvement. Imaging studies such as MRI may be employed to identify any compressive lesions.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment options for anterior interosseous syndrome include:

  • Conservative management: Rest, splinting, and physical therapy may be effective in mild cases.
  • Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Surgical intervention: In cases where conservative treatment fails, surgical decompression of the nerve may be necessary.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for anterior interosseous syndrome varies depending on the underlying cause and the timeliness of treatment. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes, with many patients experiencing significant improvement in function.

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD