Introduction
It is well known that there is a wide variation in the reported prevalence of the palmaris longus (PL) absence in different
ethnic groups. This prospective study was conducted to determine the prevalence of absence of PL and correlate it with gender
and body side in Turkish population.
Method
In total, 1,350 randomly selected adult patients (675 men and 675 women) who admitted to our outpatient clinic were examined
for the absence of PL using Schaeffer’s test and Mishra’s second test. The absence of PL on both sides, results of the first
and second examination tests, age, gender and dexterity were recorded and analyzed statistically.
Results
The overall prevalence of absence of PL (unilateral or bilateral) was 26.6% in Turkish population. The absence of PL in women
was statistically more common than men. Bilateral absence of PL was statistically frequent than unilateral absence. The prevalence
of absence of PL was statistically similar between the body sides.
Conclusion
Mishra’s second test which involves resisted abduction of the thumb, may be better in demonstration of the PL where the muscle
was feebly developed, particularly in women.
Keywords Palmaris longus - Agenesis - Turkish population