How can a diagnosis of brachial plexus injury be verified after delivery?

A diagnosis of brachial plexus injury can be verified after delivery primarily through a thorough physical assessment for arm movement and reflexes. This approach is vital because brachial plexus injuries typically manifest in reduced or absent movement in the affected arm, as well as changes in reflexes that may indicate nerve injury.

During the assessment, healthcare providers will evaluate the infant for signs such as the presence of the Moro reflex and the ability to move the arm and hand. Affected infants may exhibit weakness or paralysis in one arm, and specific tests can help determine the extent of the injury. This direct observation is essential because it provides real-time, functional evidence of how the injury affects the infant's motor capabilities.

Using a blood test for nerve damage or imaging studies like an MRI are not standard practices for confirming this diagnosis, as these methods do not provide immediate functional information about limb movement and reflexes in newborns. Observing for signs of jaundice is unrelated to brachial plexus injury and focuses on a different condition, typically related to bilirubin levels in the blood. Thus, the physical assessment is the most direct and effective method for verifying a brachial plexus injury after delivery.