What is a common symptom of anterior interosseous syndrome?

• A. Sensory loss
• B. Dull ache in forearm
• C. Pain in the wrist
• D. Weakness in shoulder flexion

Answer: (B)

The common symptom associated with anterior interosseous syndrome is characterized by weakness in the muscles innervated by the anterior interosseous branch of the median nerve. This typically results in specific deficits rather than pain or sensory loss. Individuals may experience a dull ache in the forearm, which can arise from the dysfunction of the flexor pollicis longus, flexor digitorum profundus to the index finger, and pronator quadratus muscles.

Unlike sensory loss, which is not typically associated with this syndrome since the anterior interosseous nerve does not carry sensory fibers, or pain specifically located in the wrist, the symptom of a forearm ache aligns with the muscle weakness and mechanical strain associated with the affected muscles. Additionally, weakness in shoulder flexion would not be relevant here since the anterior interosseous syndrome primarily affects the forearm muscles and does not involve shoulder function directly. Thus, the dull ache in the forearm serves as a significant indicator of anterior interosseous syndrome.