[The arteriovenous fistula is an additional risk factor for developing carpal tunnel syndrome in hemodialysis patients].

Introduction: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most frequent entrapment neuropathy reported in patients with renal failure undergoing periodic haemodialysis. The role of arteriovenous fistula was discussed. The aim of this study was to investigate this relationship.

Methods: Subjects for this study were hemodialysis patients who underwent systematic electroneuromyography between January 2003 and December 2010. Only patients with unilateral fistulae were included for the study.

Results: One hundred and thirty-four out of 155 patients were examined. CTS was noted in 106 patients and was detectable only in ENMG in 42% of cases. It was more frequent (P<0.001) and more severe in the side of fistulae (P=0.08). Besides, development of CTS was only correlated with the longer duration of dialysis (P=0.005). This duration was significantly shorter in patients with CTS and diabetes.

Conclusion: The positive correlation between CTS and aretriovenous fistulae confirms the pathogenic role of this latter. The risk rises in these patients with the duration of hemodialysis and the presence of diabetes.