Peripheral Mononeuropathy - Lateral Cutaneous Nerve of the Thigh

Question 1

What is Meralgia Paraesthetica?

Answer 1

Localised sensory symptoms of the outer thigh, caused by compression of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve - mononeuropathy.

Question 2

Epidemiology of Meralgia Paraesthetica.

Answer 2

1. 30-40.
2. Men > Women.
3. Diabetes > Non-Diabetes.

Question 3

Risk Factors of Meralgia Paraesthetica (7).

Answer 3

1. Obesity.
2. Pregnancy.
3. Tense Ascites.
4. Trauma.
5. Iatrogenic.
6. Various Sports.
7. Idiopathic.

Question 4

Anatomy of Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve of Thigh( 2).

Answer 4

1. L1, L2, L3.

2. Behind Psoas Muscle, Around Surface of Iliac, Under Inguinal Ligament onto Thigh, Medial and Inferior to ASIS.

Question 5

Functions of Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve of Thigh.

Answer 5

ONLY SENSORY : Upper Outer Thigh.

Question 6

Clinical Presentation of Meralgia Paraesthetica.

Answer 6

Abnormal Sensations - Dysaesthesia and Loss of Sensation - Anaesthesia in Nerve Distribution (Upper Outer Thigh) :

1. Burning.
2. Numbness.
3. Pins and Needles.
4. Cold Sensation.
5. Hair Loss.
6. Aggravated by Walking/Standing and Hip Extension but Relieved by Sitting.

Question 7

Investigations of Meralgia Paraesthetica.

Answer 7

1. Diagnosis : Clinical - History and Examination.

Question 8

What special test is used to diagnose Meralgia Paraesthetica?

Answer 8

Deep palpation just below the ASIS - PELVIC COMPRESSION.

Question 9

Management of Meralgia Paraesthetica (3).

Answer 9

1. Conservative - Rest, Looser Clothing, Weight Loss and Physiotherapy.
2. Medical - Analgesia : Paracetamol, NSAIDs, Neuropathic Analgesia, Local Injections.
3. Surgical - Decompression, Transection, Resection.