Revista médica de Chile
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Monomelic amyotrophy, also known as Hirayama disease, is a rare lower motor neuron syndrome due to localized lower motor neuron loss in the spinal cord at the cervical level. Clinically, monomelic amyotrophy is defined by the insidious onset of unilateral atrophy and weakness involving the hand and forearm, typically beginning in the second or third decade of life. We report 19-year-old man with a two years history of slowly progressive unilateral weakness and atrophy of his right-hand muscles. ⋯ Electromyography showed active and chronic neurogenic changes affecting C8 and T1 myotomes, with mild chronic neurogenic changes on C7 myotome. Magnetic resonance imaging of his cervical spine revealed spinal cord atrophy involving C5 to C7 segments, associated with forward displacement of the posterior wall of the dura in cervical spine flexion. The clinical features associated with the imaging and electrophysiological findings support the diagnosis of monomelic amyotrophy.
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A health system is successful when it maintains a healthy population and provides health services that are effective, equitable and safe. ⋯ The design of a multidimensional monitoring system for health access allows us to complement measures usually focused on a specific concept of access (such as utilization, coverage, etc.) with other dimensions. It includes those barriers that are relevant for the Chilean population. It also allows comparisons with other health systems and the generation of evidence to improve public policies.