Anterior Interosseus Nerve Syndrome Masqueraded by a Functional Gantzer Muscle Variant: A Report of 3 Cases.
Cristian Escalera, Kartik Reddy, Darryl B Sneag et al.
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Case in brief
Three patients with anterior interosseous nerve syndrome (AINS) exhibited thumb interphalangeal flexion despite complete denervation of the flexor pollicis longus. Advanced imaging identified a Gantzer muscle variant in all cases, which was confirmed surgically in two patients who underwent microneurolysis. This finding highlights the complexity of AINS presentations.
What made this case unusual
The presence of a Gantzer muscle variant in patients with AINS, allowing for thumb flexion despite denervation, is noteworthy.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider the possibility of a Gantzer muscle variant in AINS cases where thumb interphalangeal flexion is preserved.
Why it matters
Understanding this variant can prevent misinterpretation of clinical signs and guide appropriate management in patients with AINS.