The present data indicate that CTS and UNE are not associated with higher plasma levels of caspase-3 or caspase-8, which is probably explained by an insufficient compression leading to no, or a too low, induction of activation and apoptosis in the Schwann cells and in the neurons, where also the timing of evaluation in relation to the nerve compression is crucial. This evidence concerns the gene CASP8 and carpal tunnel syndrome.