meralgia paraesthetica

Question 1

what is meralgia paraesthetica?

Answer 1

bernhardt-roth syndrome
characterised by numbness, tingling + burning pain in lateral part of your thigh

caused by compression of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve LFCN

Question 2

describe anatomy of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve

Answer 2

sensory nerve
originates from L2/3 segments

Question 3

what are risk factors for meralgia paraesthetica?

Answer 3

obesity
pregnancy
tense ascites
trauma
iatrogenic- pelvic osteotomy, spinal surgeries, lap hernia repair, bariatric surgery
sports- gymnastics, football, bodybuilding
idopathic

Question 4

what are presenting features of meralgia paraesthetica?

Answer 4

burning, tingling, coldness or shooting pain
numbness
deep muscle ache
aggravated by standing
relieved by sitting
may resolve spontaneously or ongoing

Question 5

what are clinical signs of meralgia paraesthetica?

Answer 5

symptoms reproduced by dep palpation just below ASIS (pelvic compression) and extending hip
altered sensation over upper lateral aspect of thigh
no motor weakness

Question 6

what investigations are needed for meralgia paraesthetica?

Answer 6

pelvic compression test is sensitive

injection of nerve with LA will resolve pain

USS can be used to diagnose and guide injection therapy

nerve conduction studies