Anatomical Basis of Clinical Features of Erb's Palsy and Klumpke's Paralysis

Introduction

Erb's palsy and Klumpke's paralysis are two distinct types of brachial plexus injuries that result in characteristic motor deficits.

Anatomical Structures Involved in Erb's Palsy

Brachial Plexus Overview

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that originate from the cervical spinal cord (C5-T1) and supply the upper limb.

Nerve Injury in Erb's Palsy

• Erb's palsy involves injury to the upper trunk (C5-C6) of the brachial plexus.
• Damage to these roots affects the suprascapular, musculocutaneous, and axillary nerves.
• Muscles affected include the deltoid, biceps brachii, brachialis, and infraspinatus.
• Common symptoms include 'waiter's tip' deformity, weak elbow flexion, and impaired shoulder abduction.

Anatomical Structures Involved in Klumpke's Paralysis

Lower Trunk Injury

• Klumpke's paralysis results from injury to the lower trunk (C8-T1) of the brachial plexus.
• Damage affects the ulnar and median nerves, leading to paralysis of the intrinsic hand muscles.
• Common symptoms include 'claw hand' deformity and potential Horner's syndrome.

Clinical Significance and Management

Understanding the anatomical basis helps clinicians diagnose and manage these conditions effectively.