Carpal tunnel severity — SCE Rheumatology MCQ

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ModerateMusculoskeletal investigationsCarpal tunnel severitySCE Rheumatology

A 63-year-old woman has nocturnal hand numbness and thenar wasting. Examination shows reduced thumb abduction. Neck movements do not reproduce symptoms. What is the most appropriate investigation?

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Correct answer: A — Nerve conduction studies

Nerve conduction studies confirm severity and support decompression referral. The distractors investigate different diseases and would not answer the immediate diagnostic question. The most useful rheumatology investigation is the one that changes diagnosis, urgency or treatment choice.

Reference: BSR hot swollen joint guideline; NICE CKS; EULAR imaging recommendations