Imaging breast cancer patients with brachial plexus syndrome

Learning Objectives 1. Review the anatomy of the brachial plexus and brachial plexus syndrome. 2. Illustrate, compare, and contrast the imaging techniques, which can evaluate the brachial plexus in breast cancer patients. 3. Demonstrate the complementary value of both anatomic and functional imaging in brachial plexus syndrome.

The brachial plexus provides sensory and motor innervation to the upper extremities. In breast cancer patients, the brachial plexus is not infrequently involved by metastasis, injury from treatment or inflammation. Symptoms of the brachial plexus syndrome (BPS) are commonly debilitating but are nonspecific and non-localizing. Clinically evaluating breast cancer patients with BPS is very challenging and relies heavily on imaging. Successful imaging of the brachial plexus requires understanding of the complicated anatomy and frequently employs both anatomic and functional imaging techniques. The aim of this educational exhibit is to provide the interpreting physician state-of-the art, practical information for greater confidence when interpreting images in patients with brachial plexus syndrome