Parsonage–Turner syndrome

Parsonage–Turner syndrome is also known as acute brachial neuropathy and acute brachial radiculitis. Other names used are Parsonage–Aldren–Turner syndrome, neuralgic amyotrophy, brachial neuritis, brachial plexus neuropathy, or brachial plexitis.

The idiopathic syndrome refers to a rare set of symptoms resulting from inflammation of unknown etiology of the brachial plexus. (The brachial plexus is a complex network of nerves through which impulses reach the arms, shoulders and chest.)

Presentation
This syndrome can begin with severe shoulder or arm pain followed by weakness and numbness. Those who suffer from Parsonage–Turner experience acute, sudden-onset pain radiating from the shoulder to the upper arm. Affected muscles become weak and atrophied, and in advanced cases, paralyzed.

MRI may assist in diagnosis.

Prognosis
Despite its wasting and at times long-lasting effects, most cases resolve themselves and recovery is usually good in 18–24 months.

Eponym
It is named for Maurice Parsonage and John Turner.