Recent literature has emphasized the role of hand surgeons in screening patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) for amyloidosis by performing a carpal tunnel synovial biopsy during open carpal tunnel release (CTR). This has led to misconceptions about the diagnostic utility of synovial biopsy and the clinical evaluation of suspected amyloidosis. Controversy over carpal tunnel biopsy is exacerbated by minimally invasive advances in CTR procedures. This current perspective aims to determine the role of carpal tunnel synovial biopsy in amyloidosis and provide an update for hand surgeons regarding the nuances of amyloidosis. We conclude that carpal tunnel synovial biopsy should not be performed without CTS symptoms but only in patients meeting criteria for open CTR such as in those with severe symptoms which have failed nonoperative treatment and minimally invasive procedures are contraindicated. A screening approach for amyloidosis is proposed in patients presenting with CTS symptoms. Despite advances in the understanding, treatment, and diagnosis of amyloidosis, there remains a need for accurate, specific, and sensitive diagnostic tests.
Keywords: amyloid; approach; carpal tunnel syndrome; screening; synovial biopsy.