Etymed
plexopathy
Definition
A disease or disorder affecting a plexus, which is a network of nerves or blood vessels
Clinical context
A 23-year-old construction worker presents with severe pain and weakness in his right arm after a fall from a ladder. Physical examination reveals loss of sensation in the lateral aspect of his arm and weakness in his wrist extension. CT scan shows compression of the brachial plexus. A 25-year-old patient presents with progressive weakness and atrophy of the hand muscles following a sports injury. Electromyography confirms damage to the brachial plexus.
Mnemonic
PLEXOPATHY = PLEXus disorder (network of nerves affected by trauma, compression, or disease)