• Keith J Pagel, Matthew P Kaul, and John D Dryden.
• Rehabilitation Medicine Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Portland, Oregon 97207, USA.
• Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2002 Aug 1; 81 (8): 597-600.

ObjectiveTo investigate the value of Semmes-Weinstein monofilament (SWM) testing in patients with electrodiagnostically confirmed carpal tunnel syndrome in a group of patients with symptoms compatible with carpal tunnel syndrome.DesignA total of 119 consecutive patients with symptoms compatible with carpal tunnel syndrome were assessed. Blinded comparison of two Semmes-Weinstein monofilament testing protocols with orthodromic midpalm electrodiagnostic testing was performed. The electrodiagnostic test was considered the standard to which the results of the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament testing were measured.ResultsFifty three percent of our patients had electrodiagnostically confirmed carpal tunnel syndrome. Using a conservative Semmes-Weinstein monofilament testing protocol the sensitivity was 98% and the specificity was 15%. The positive predictive value was 56% and the negative predictive value was 88%. Using a liberal Semmes-Weinstein monofilament testing protocol the sensitivity was 13% and the specificity was 88%. The positive predictive value was 53% and the negative predictive value was 47%.ConclusionSemmes-Weinstein monofilament testing was not shown to have utility in diagnosing electrodiagnostically confirmed carpal tunnel syndrome in our population of predominantly male veterans.

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