Case study: Meralgia paresthetica – Injection

A 65-year-old woman, a homemaker, has been experiencing persistent pain and numbness in her right thigh for the past 5 years. A recent L4-L5 disc surgery provided no relief, and notably, the patient doesn’t recall any prior trauma.

Physical examination

The pain presented over the anterolateral aspect of the thigh, not extending below the knee.

Ultrasound findings

Considering the patient’s symptoms and previous evaluations, there was suspicion of a lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) entrapment, commonly referred to as meralgia paresthetica. Ultrasound examination revealed a swollen LFCN, particularly the anterior branch.

Transverse view of the anterior thigh showing a slightly swollen lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN), especially the anterior branch. 

Diagnosis

The patient was diagnosed with meralgia paresthetica, which presents as tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation in the lateral thigh. These symptoms typically result from the compression of the LFCN. While most individuals experience it unilateral, there are cases of bilateral symptoms.

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