What condition is characterized by paresthesia and burning pain in the dorsal hand?

• A. Ulnar nerve entrapment
• B. Cheralgia paresthetica
• C. Radial nerve palsy
• D. Median nerve entrapment

Answer: (B)

The condition characterized by paresthesia and burning pain in the dorsal hand is known as Cheralgia paresthetica, which is also referred to as superficial radial nerve entrapment. This condition specifically affects the radial nerve, which is responsible for sensory innervation to the dorsal aspect of the hand and fingers.

Cheralgia paresthetica manifests as discomfort in the area supplied by the superficial branch of the radial nerve, including symptoms such as burning pain and tingling sensations across the dorsal surface of the hand. The symptoms often arise due to compression or irritation of the nerve, which can happen from prolonged pressure, such as resting the arm on an object or repetitive wrist movements.

The other conditions listed typically present with different symptoms or affected areas. Ulnar nerve entrapment usually involves the ulnar nerve, causing symptoms like numbness and pain primarily in the little and half of the ring fingers on the palm side, while the dorsal side remains less affected. Radial nerve palsy leads to wrist drop and loss of function in the posterior aspect of the arm and hand rather than sensory changes. Median nerve entrapment, or carpal tunnel syndrome, results in symptoms like tingling and weakness predominantly in the palmar aspect of the hand and