Two objective "archivable" tests for voluntary muscle testing in ulnar and median nerve paralysis.

Two tests are proposed for assessment of ulnar and median nerve function for use under field conditions: (i) "flap flexion" of fingers for ulnar nerve, and, (ii) tip-to-tip thumb opposition to the fourth finger for median nerve. These tests, which are a part of a series of simple clinical tests proposed for rapid neurological evaluation of the function of the nerves involved in leprosy, are simple, objective and easy to do. Because these tests depend on the strength of muscles tested, they might spare its direct assessment.

The metacarpophalangeal stabilization test: its surgical interest.

If the fingers of the claw hand are stabilized in order to prevent over-extension of the metacarpophalangeal joints, the long extensors will fully extend both interphalangeal joints. Based on the proximal interphalangeal stiffness assessed by this test, a simple therapeutic plan is proposed for the choice of the appropriate techniques for palliative claw hand surgery.

[Mycetoma of the hand. Apropos of 10 cases].

Mycetomas of the hand are a rare site of an uncommon disease, particularly in temperate climates. They are non-purulent inflammatory pseudotumours of mycotic origin. They are generally seen in Tropical Africa with a slow course progressing towards a phase of cutaneous fistula formation producing black, white or red grains depending on the fungus responsible.