Thoracic outlet syndrome

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Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Definition[edit | edit source]

TOS is an umbrella term that encompasses three related syndromes that involve compression of the nerves, arteries, and veins in the lower neck and upper chest area and cause pain in the arm, shoulder, and neck.

Alternate names[edit | edit source]

TOS

Wikipedia medical illustration thoracic outlet syndrome brachial plexus anatomy with labels.jpg

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

  • The exact incidence of TOS is challenging to determine due to varied symptoms and lack of a specific diagnostic test.
  • Estimates range from 3 to 80 cases per 1000 people.
  • TOS is more prevalent in women.

Causes[edit | edit source]

  • TOS may result from physical trauma, anatomical defects, tumors, poor posture, pregnancy, or repetitive arm and shoulder movements, such as from sports.
  • It involves compression of the brachial plexus or subclavian vessels, leading to disagreement in diagnosis and treatment approaches.

Onset[edit | edit source]

  • Symptoms typically occur between 20 and 50 years of age.

Types and Symptoms[edit | edit source]

  • Arterial TOS (A-TOS): Compression of the subclavian artery, usually by a cervical rib.
  • Symptoms: Blood clots, arm pain with exertion, or acute arterial thrombosis.
  • Venous TOS (V-TOS): Compression of the subclavian vein, often linked to repetitive arm activities.
  • Symptoms: Pain, swelling, and deep vein thrombosis.
  • Traumatic neurovascular TOS: Following trauma to the collarbone, affecting both nerves and vessels.
  • Symptoms: Pain, swelling, bruising, weakness, and sensory loss in the arm and hand.
  • True neurogenic TOS (TN-TOS): Caused by compression of the brachial plexus.
  • Symptoms: Numbness, abnormal sensations, weakness in arms and shoulders, pain in neck, shoulder, or hand.
  • Disputed TOS: Majority of neurogenic cases; controversial as it lacks consistent physical abnormality or standard treatment.
  • Symptoms: Pain, tingling, numbness in the neck, arm, and hand.

Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Treatment[edit | edit source]

NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]

Thoracic outlet syndrome is a rare disease.


Thoracic outlet syndrome Resources

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