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Background In the current study, we aimed to determine normative values for muscle thickness and fasciculation prevalence in healthy subjects. Methods We performed a prospective study from October to December 2018 in 65 healthy subjects. All subjects underwent quantitative sonographic evaluation of muscle thickness and fasciculation prevalence in the following 8 muscles: Biceps brachii, abductor pollicis brevis, first dorsal interosseous, abductor digiti minimi, quadriceps, tibialis anterior, extensor digitorum brevis, and abductor hallucis brevis. Results Subject ages ranged from 21 to 82 years, with 63% women. Normative values for muscle thickness were determined using the fifth percentile. Multivariate regression analysis showed that sex, age, body mass index, and hand dominance affected muscle thickness. Fasciculations were observed frequently only in distal muscles. Conclusions Normal values for muscle thickness were determined, and may enhance neuromuscular ultrasound sensitivity and serve as a basis for future studies. Larger series are needed to confirm these values.

Introduction Nerve imaging has a limited role in axonal and muscle fiber loss. In this study, we sought to explore the utility of standardized muscle ultrasound (US) assessment in these clinical scenarios. Methods We performed a prospective study from March to August 2018 of patients attending the neuromuscular clinic. All patients underwent clinical evaluation and standardized muscle thickness measurement by US in seven muscles. Results The study cohort consisted of 114 participants, including patients with polyneuropathy, motor neuron disease, and myopathy. The smallest distal muscle thickness was found in patients with polyneuropathy, while the smallest proximal muscle thickness was found in patients with myopathy. Muscle thickness was strongly correlated with muscle strength (r 2 = 0.62), electrophysiological findings (r 2: 0.44‐0.55), and disability score (r 2 = 0.53). Discussion Standardized muscle thickness measured by US shows diagnostic usefulness in a spectrum of neuromuscular disorders and correlates with clinical and electrophysiological findings.

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