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Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common compression neuropathy.
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Despite the prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome, many other conditions present with similar symptoms (numbness, tingling, thenar atrophy, and weakness).
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Carpal tunnel syndrome is differentiated from other etiologies through a detailed history and physical examination, aided by electrodiagnostic and adjunctive imaging studies.
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Misdiagnosis can lead to unnecessary operative procedures and persistent symptoms.
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common compression neuropathy and one of the most common disorders of the hand, affecting 3.7% of the general population1. Despite the common occurrence of CTS, several other medical and neurologic conditions can mimic its symptoms. It is important to be familiar with these conditions when evaluating a patient with symptoms of CTS, in order to pursue the appropriate work-up, avoid delays in diagnosis, and prevent unnecessary operative procedures. Table I provides an overview of mimickers of CTS.