Which set correctly lists the three facets of thoracic outlet syndrome?

Which set correctly lists the three facets of thoracic outlet syndrome?

• A. Lymphatic, Neural, and Skeletal
• B. Neurogenic, Venous, and Arterial
• C. Neural, Vascular, and Skeletal
• D. Nerve entrapment, Vascular obstruction, and Muscular compression

Answer: (B)

Thoracic outlet syndrome is categorized by which structures are compressed as they pass from the thorax to the upper limb. The three main facets are neural, venous, and arterial. Neurogenic (neural) TOS arises from compression of the lower brachial plexus, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the arm or hand. Venous TOS results from subclavian vein compression, causing arm swelling, heaviness, and venous congestion. Arterial TOS involves the subclavian artery, producing ischemic symptoms in the hand such as pallor, coldness, or diminished pulses. This set best matches the standard classification of TOS. Other options mix in lymphatic or skeletal elements or use less precise terminology like nerve entrapment or muscular compression, which don’t reflect the conventional three-facet framework.

Thoracic outlet syndrome is categorized by which structures are compressed as they pass from the thorax to the upper limb. The three main facets are neural, venous, and arterial. Neurogenic (neural) TOS arises from compression of the lower brachial plexus, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the arm or hand. Venous TOS results from subclavian vein compression, causing arm swelling, heaviness, and venous congestion. Arterial TOS involves the subclavian artery, producing ischemic symptoms in the hand such as pallor, coldness, or diminished pulses.

This set best matches the standard classification of TOS. Other options mix in lymphatic or skeletal elements or use less precise terminology like nerve entrapment or muscular compression, which don’t reflect the conventional three-facet framework.