Anterior Cutaneous Nerve Entrapment Syndrome: An Underestimated Diagnosis

INTRODUCTION: In the process of differential diagnosis concerning chronic abdominal wall pain (CAWP), several conditions are typically considered, including abdominal wall hernias, endometriosis, thoracic nerve radiculopathies, xiphoidalgia, and lower rib pain syndromes. Notwithstanding these, there exists an additional condition that is often overlooked initially: anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome (ACNES). This syndrome is characterized by the entrapment of cutaneous nerve branches responsible for supplying the abdominal wall. The diagnostic procedure for this condition can present notable challenges. CASE PRESENTATION: The subject of concern was a male patient aged 30, who presented with persistent CAWP. Despite conducting comprehensive analyses of his blood, urine, and imaging studies, no anomalies were detected. However, he exhibited positive results for the pinch test and Carnett's sign. Based on the outcomes of his clinical assessment, the patient received a diagnosis of ACNES. Subsequent administration of gabapentin resulted in a notable alleviation of his symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: This case report highlights the referral of a patient to a neurology clinic owing to abdominal wall pain. Given the rarity of ACNES reports, our objective was to delineate the findings of our patient, with the aim of augmenting clinicians' understanding of this condition.