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Damaged axillary nerve
Damaged axillary nerve
OverviewSymptomsTreatmentPrevention

Axillary nerve dysfunction

Alternative Names:
Neuropathy - axillary nerve

Symptoms:
  • Numbness over part of the outer shoulder
  • Shoulder weakness
    • Difficulty lifting objects with the affected arm
    • Difficulty lifting arm above the head


Signs and tests:

A neuromuscular examination of the arm and shoulder indicates axillary nerve dysfunction. There may be weakness of the shoulder, with difficulty moving the arm.

The deltoid muscle of the shoulder may show signs of muscle atrophy. A detailed history may be needed to determine the possible cause of the neuropathy.

Tests that reveal axillary nerve dysfunction may include:

  • An EMG (a recording of electrical activity in muscles)
  • A nerve biopsy (may reveal systemic causes for the dysfunction)
  • An MRI to check for masses or lesions
Tests are given based on the suspected cause of the dysfunction suggested by the patient's history, symptoms, and pattern of symptom development. They may include various blood tests, x-rays, scans, or other tests.

Review Date: 5/8/2003
Reviewed By: Elaine T. Kiriakopoulos, M.D., M.Sc., Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard University, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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