Five Cases of Idiopathic Sciatic Mononeuropathy: Clinical, Electrophysiological, Radiological, and Histological Features

Abstract

Background: Common etiologies of sciatic mononeuropathy are compressive, infiltrative, traumatic, or diabetic. However, in a proportion of patients, the etiology remains elusive despite extensive serological, electrophysiological, radiological, and histological investigations. Methods: Patients with unexplained sciatic mononeuropathy were studied with regard to their clinical, radiological, pathological, and treatment aspects. Results: We could identify five cases of sciatic mononeuropathy wherein the etiology remained unknown even after a comprehensive evaluation. The compressive, metabolic, hematological, and immune causes were ruled out with necessary investigations. The clinical, electrophysiological, radiological, and histological features of these patients are discussed. Conclusion: The etiology of sciatic mononeuropathy can remain obscure in certain instances in spite of the comprehensive workup. The role of investigations and the exclusion process of various diagnostic entities are discussed.