Muscle hernia - forearm

Case contributed by Maulik S Patel
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

A tiny nodule is noted at the palmar aspect of the distal right forearm for few days. The nodule is seen with wrist extension only. It disappears with the neutral position of the wrist and with local compression. It cannot be delineated on palpation. No pain or skin changes.

Patient Data

Age: 25 years
Gender: Female
ultrasound

There is a facial defect at the site of the nodule at the palmar aspect of the right forearm. There is a hernia of underlying muscle with the wrist extension only. Defect measure about 6 x 5 mm. A vessel pierces the fascia at the defect site.

Case Discussion

Ultrasound findings favor distal forearm muscle hernia on palmar aspect. Muscle hernias are more common in lower extremities. Part of the herniated muscle appears hypoechoic than rest of the muscle lying deep to the fascia. There can be single or multiple defects in the fascia. Most muscle hernias are asymptomatic. While evaluating for a muscle hernia by ultrasound, light pressure is to be applied and use a lot amount of gel to avoid reducing the hernia.

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