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Holmes GM, Blanke EN. Gastrointestinal dysfunction after spinal cord injury. Exp Neurol 2019; 320:113009. [PMID: 31299180 PMCID: PMC6716787 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2019.113009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The gastrointestinal tract of vertebrates is a heterogeneous organ system innervated to varying degrees by a local enteric neural network as well as extrinsic parasympathetic and sympathetic neural circuits located along the brainstem and spinal axis. This diverse organ system serves to regulate the secretory and propulsive reflexes integral to the digestion and absorption of nutrients. The quasi-segmental distribution of the neural circuits innervating the gastrointestinal (GI) tract produces varying degrees of dysfunction depending upon the level of spinal cord injury (SCI). At all levels of SCI, GI dysfunction frequently presents life-long challenges to individuals coping with injury. Growing attention to the profound changes that occur across the entire physiology of individuals with SCI reveals profound knowledge gaps in our understanding of the temporal dimensions and magnitude of organ-specific co-morbidities following SCI. It is essential to understand and identify these broad pathophysiological changes in order to develop appropriate evidence-based strategies for management by clinicians, caregivers and individuals living with SCI. This review summarizes the neurophysiology of the GI tract in the uninjured state and the pathophysiology associated with the systemic effects of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory M Holmes
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, United states of America.
| | - Emily N Blanke
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, United states of America
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Glatte P, Buchmann SJ, Hijazi MM, Illigens BMW, Siepmann T. Architecture of the Cutaneous Autonomic Nervous System. Front Neurol 2019; 10:970. [PMID: 31551921 PMCID: PMC6746903 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The human skin is a highly specialized organ for receiving sensory information but also to preserve the body's homeostasis. These functions are mediated by cutaneous small nerve fibers which display a complex anatomical architecture and are commonly classified into cutaneous A-beta, A-delta and C-fibers based on their diameter, myelinization, and velocity of conduction of action potentials. Knowledge on structure and function of these nerve fibers is relevant as they are selectively targeted by various autonomic neuropathies such as diabetic neuropathy or Parkinson's disease. Functional integrity of autonomic skin nerve fibers can be assessed by quantitative analysis of cutaneous responses to local pharmacological induction of axon reflex responses which result in dilation of cutaneous vessels, sweating, or piloerection depending on the agent used to stimulate this neurogenic response. Sensory fibers can be assessed using quantitative sensory test. Complementing these functional assessments, immunohistochemical staining of superficial skin biopsies allow analysis of structural integrity of cutaneous nerve fibers, a technique which has gained attention due to its capacity of detecting pathogenic depositions of alpha-synuclein in patients with Parkinson's disease. Here, we reviewed the current literature on the anatomy and functional pathways of the cutaneous autonomic nervous system as well as diagnostic techniques to assess its functional and structural integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Glatte
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sylvia J Buchmann
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Mido Max Hijazi
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Ben Min-Woo Illigens
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Timo Siepmann
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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MacDonald S, Sharma TL, Li J, Polston D, Li Y. Longitudinal follow‐up of biopsy‐proven small fiber neuropathy. Muscle Nerve 2019; 60:376-381. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.26648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jianbo Li
- Department of Quantitative Health SciencesLearner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation Cleveland Ohio
| | - David Polston
- Department of NeurologyCleveland Clinic Cleveland Ohio
| | - Yuebing Li
- Department of NeurologyCleveland Clinic Cleveland Ohio
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Fava E, Kofler M, Saltuari L. Reversible cutaneous silent period abnormalities in vitamin B12 deficiency: A case report. Clin Neurophysiol Pract 2019; 4:128-132. [PMID: 31249907 PMCID: PMC6586985 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnp.2019.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Polyneuropathy is a frequent neurological manifestation of B12 hypovitaminosis. Thin-myelinated A-delta fibers may be affected in B12 hypovitaminosis. CSP testing is a useful diagnostic tool for A-delta fiber function in B12 deficiency.
Objectives Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in adult and elderly patients and is often underdiagnosed because of its polymorphous manifestations. Neurological symptoms of this condition include subacute combined degeneration and polyneuropathy, with possible affection of thin-myelinated A-delta fibers. Cutaneous silent periods (CSPs) may serve to test small-diameter fiber function non-invasively, using routine electrodiagnostic equipment, but to the best of our knowledge have not been studied so far in vitamin B12 deficiency. Methods We report a 49-year-old male patient suffering from B12 hypovitaminosis due to autoantibodies against gastric parietal cells, who underwent neurophysiological investigation to confirm clinically suspected polyneuropathy during the first month of intramuscular vitamin B12 supplementation. We performed standard electroneurography, needle electromyography in tibialis anterior muscle, quantitative sensory testing, and cutaneous silent periods six months after symptom onset and repeated the electrodiagnostic study 21 months later, after intramuscular vitamin B12 supplementation. Results Standard electroneurography demonstrated axonal sensory polyneuropathy. Needle electromyography (EMG) in tibialis anterior muscle was unremarkable. Cutaneous silent periods in tibialis anterior muscle after noxious electrical sural nerve stimulation were delayed, with incomplete EMG suppression concurring with dysfunction of thin-myelinated A-delta fibers. Quantitative sensory testing revealed altered cold and warm perception thresholds in both upper limbs, but normal values in both lower limbs. A follow-up electrodiagnostic study after 21 months intramuscular vitamin B12 supplementation revealed improvement of all neurophysiological findings, including normalization of cutaneous silent periods. Conclusions Thin-myelinated A-delta fibers may be affected in B12 hypovitaminosis and may show recovery after intramuscular vitamin B12 supplementation. CSP may serve to diagnose small fiber affection in this medical condition and to monitor their recovery after vitamin supplementation. Significance CSP testing represents a useful, non-invasive, rapidly available diagnostic and follow-up tool in vitamin B12 deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Fava
- Department of Neurology, Hochzirl Hospital, Zirl, Austria
| | - Markus Kofler
- Department of Neurology, Hochzirl Hospital, Zirl, Austria
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Abstract
Sensory polyneuropathies, which are caused by dysfunction of peripheral sensory nerve fibers, are a heterogeneous group of disorders that range from the common diabetic neuropathy to the rare sensory neuronopathies. The presenting symptoms, acuity, time course, severity, and subsequent morbidity vary and depend on the type of fiber that is affected and the underlying cause. Damage to small thinly myelinated and unmyelinated nerve fibers results in neuropathic pain, whereas damage to large myelinated sensory afferents results in proprioceptive deficits and ataxia. The causes of these disorders are diverse and include metabolic, toxic, infectious, inflammatory, autoimmune, and genetic conditions. Idiopathic sensory polyneuropathies are common although they should be considered a diagnosis of exclusion. The diagnostic evaluation involves electrophysiologic testing including nerve conduction studies, histopathologic analysis of nerve tissue, serum studies, and sometimes autonomic testing and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. The treatment of these diseases depends on the underlying cause and may include immunotherapy, mitigation of risk factors, symptomatic treatment, and gene therapy, such as the recently developed RNA interference and antisense oligonucleotide therapies for transthyretin familial amyloid polyneuropathy. Many of these disorders have no directed treatment, in which case management remains symptomatic and supportive. More research is needed into the underlying pathophysiology of nerve damage in these polyneuropathies to guide advances in treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Graham Gwathmey
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Department of Neurology, 1101 E. Marshall Street, PO Box 980599, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Kathleen T Pearson
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Department of Neurology, 1101 E. Marshall Street, PO Box 980599, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
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Abstract
Primary burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is defined as an "intraoral burning or dysaesthetic sensation, recurring daily… more than 3 months, without clinically evident causative lesions" (IHS 2013). In addition to pain, taste alterations are frequent (dysgeusia, xerostomia). Although lacking clinical signs of neuropathy, more accurate diagnostic methods have shown neuropathic involvement at various levels of the neuraxis in BMS: peripheral small fiber damage (thermal quantitative sensory testing, electrogustatometry, epithelial nerve fiber density), trigeminal system lesions in the periphery or the brainstem (brainstem reflex recordings, trigeminal neurography, evoked potentials), or signs of decreased inhibition within the central nervous system (deficient brainstem reflex habituation, positive signs in quantitative sensory testing, neurotransmitter-positron emission tomography findings indicative of deficient striatal dopamine function). Abnormalities in electrogustatometry indicate the involvement of the small Aδ taste afferents, in addition to somatosensory small fibers. According to these findings, the clinical entity of BMS can be divided into 2 main subtypes compatible with either peripheral or central neuropathic pain, which may overlap in individual patients. The central type does not respond to local treatments and associates often with psychiatric comorbidity (depression or anxiety), whereas the peripheral type responds to peripheral lidocaine blocks and topical clonazepam. Burning mouth syndrome is most prevalent in postmenopausal women, having led to a hypothesis that BMS is triggered as a consequence of nervous system damage caused by neurotoxic factors affecting especially vulnerable small fibers and basal ganglia in a setting of decrease in neuroprotective gonadal hormones and increase in stress hormone levels, typical for menopause.
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Zouari HG, Wahab A, Ng Wing Tin S, Sène D, Lefaucheur JP. The Clinical Features of Painful Small-Fiber Neuropathy Suggesting an Origin Linked to Primary Sjögren's Syndrome. Pain Pract 2019; 19:426-434. [PMID: 30636091 DOI: 10.1111/papr.12763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We attempted to determine whether clinical features could differentiate painful small-fiber neuropathy related to primary Sj€ogren's syndrome (pSS-SFN) from idiopathic SFN (idio-SFN). METHODS Validated clinical questionnaires and neurophysiological investigations specific for pain and SFN assessment were performed in 25 patients with pSS-SFN and 25 patients with idio-SFN. RESULTS Patients with idio-SFN had more frequent severe burning sensations and higher mean anxiety scores and daily pain intensity compared to patients with pSSSFN. Conversely, patients with pSS-SFN had reduced electrochemical skin conductance measured by Sudoscan_, and almost half of them had the sensation of walking on cotton wool. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that idio-SFN more specifically involved small sensory fibers than pSS-SFN, in which subtle dysfunction of larger sensory fibers and damage of distal autonomic sudomotor innervation may occur. A practical algorithm is proposed to help to differentiate SFN associated with pSS from idio-SFN, based on information very easy to obtain by clinical interview.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hela G Zouari
- EA 4391, Faculty of Medicine, Paris-Est-Creteil University, Créteil, France.,Physiological Investigations, Habib Bourguiba University Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Abir Wahab
- EA 4391, Faculty of Medicine, Paris-Est-Creteil University, Créteil, France.,Neurology Department, Henri Mondor University Hospital, AP-HP, Creteil, France
| | - Sophie Ng Wing Tin
- EA 4391, Faculty of Medicine, Paris-Est-Creteil University, Créteil, France.,Physiological Investigations & Sport Medicine, Avicenne Hospital, AP-HP, Bobign, France.,EA 2363, UFR SMBH, Paris_13 University, Bobigny, France
| | - Damien Sène
- Internal Medicine Department, Lariboisiere Hospital, AP-HP, Paris-7 University, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Pascal Lefaucheur
- EA 4391, Faculty of Medicine, Paris-Est-Creteil University, Créteil, France.,Clinical Neurophysiology, Henri Mondor University Hospital, AP-HP, Créteil, France
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Fealey RD. Thermoregulation in neuropathies. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2018; 157:777-787. [PMID: 30459040 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-64074-1.00048-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Peripheral neuropathy affecting autonomic and small sensory fibers can cause abnormalities of both autonomic and behavioral thermoregulation. Quantitative autonomic and sensory neurophysiologic tests and quantification of the linear density of intraepidermal nerve fibers potentially can stratify those at risk of impaired thermoregulation during cold and heat challenges. New data relating to thermoregulatory sweating impairment in neuropathy are presented in this chapter. Of 516 neuropathy patients analyzed, 345 were found to have thermoregulatory sweat test (TST) abnormalities with a mean percentage of anterior body surface anhidrosis (TST%) of 12% and a significant reduction in total body sweat rate, although the rate of core temperature rise with heating (slope) was not significantly different from that of patients with a normal TST. However a subset of abnormal TST patients having 25% or greater TST% showed a significantly more rapid rise in core temperature (lower slope) than age- and sex-matched neuropathy patients with a normal TST. Etiologies of neuropathy in this more severe group included diabetes, erythromelalgia, immune-mediated autonomic neuropathy, primary systemic amyloidosis, and neuropathy associated with postganglionic-autonomic degenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert D Fealey
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States.
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Abstract
Objectives: To compare skin biopsy sensitivity for diagnosing small fiber sensory neuropathy in Chinese American and non-Chinese American patients. Methods: We screened our skin biopsy database and performed chart review to identify Chinese and non-Chinese American patients with a high clinical suspicion for a distal small fiber sensory neuropathy, and compared the skin biopsy sensitivity. Results: Twenty-three Chinese American and 32 non-Chinese American patients with the presence of distal small fiber sensory symptoms and signs were studied. Intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) (fibers/mm) at the distal leg was higher (7.1 ± 3.9), and the diagnostic sensitivity using the worldwide normative reference values of IENFD at the distal leg was lower (26.1%) in the Chinese American group than in the non-Chinese American group (5.1 ± 3.0, P < 0.05; 62.5%, P < 0.05). Conclusions: There may be ethnic differences in IENFD at the distal leg, and a different set of IENFD normative values may be developed for ethnic Chinese to improve the skin biopsy sensitivity.
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Gender Differences in Skin Biopsy Findings in Small Fiber Neuropathy: A Retrospective Chart Review. J Clin Neuromuscul Dis 2018; 20:69-75. [PMID: 30439752 DOI: 10.1097/cnd.0000000000000228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine whether there are gender differences in the clinical presentation or skin biopsy measures of nerve fiber density in patients with small fiber neuropathy (SFN). METHODS Retrospective chart review of subjects with suspected SFN. RESULTS Of 218 cases (137 women and 81 men) with suspected SFN, 96 (44%), including 63% of the men and 33% of the women (P < 0.05), had low epidermal nerve fiber density (ENFD) or sweat gland nerve fiber density (SGNFD). There were no differences in the clinical presentation between men and women. In those with abnormal findings, low ENFD alone was more frequent in women than men (51.1% vs. 7.8%, P < 0.05), whereas abnormal SGNFD alone was more frequent in men than women (68.6% vs. 11.1%, P < 0.05). Both SGNFD and ENFD were low in 23.5% of men and 33.3% of women. Skin biopsy findings were independent of clinical presentation or etiology. CONCLUSIONS The clinical presentation of SFN is similar in men and women. In skin biopsy studies, low ENFD is more common in women and low SGNFD in men.
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Yoon SY, Oh J. Neuropathic cancer pain: prevalence, pathophysiology, and management. Korean J Intern Med 2018; 33:1058-1069. [PMID: 29929349 PMCID: PMC6234399 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2018.162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic cancer pain (NCP) is caused by nerve damage attributable to the cancer per se, and/or treatments including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery; the prevalence is reported to be as high as 40%. The etiologies of NCP include direct nerve invasion or nerve compression by the cancer, neural toxicity, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. NCP is subdivided into plexopathy, radiculopathy, and peripheral neuropathies, among several other categories. The clinical characteristics of NCP differ from those of nociceptive pain in terms of both the hypersensitivity symptoms (burning, tingling, and an electrical sensation) and the hyposensitivity symptoms (numbness and muscle weakness). Recovery requires several months to years, even after recovery from injury. Management is complex; NCP does not usually respond to opioids, although treatments may feature both opioids and adjuvant drugs including antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and anti-arrhythmic agents, all of which improve the quality-of-life. This review addresses the pathophysiology, clinical characteristics and management of NCP, and factors rendering pain control difficult.
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Affiliation(s)
- So Young Yoon
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeeyoung Oh
- Department of Neurology, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Correspondence to Jeeyoung Oh, M.D. Department of Neurology, Konkuk University Medical Center, 120-1 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05030, Korea Tel: +82-2-2030-7564 Fax: +82-2-2030-5169 E-mail:
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Gondim FDAA, Barreira AA, Claudino R, Cruz MW, Cunha FMBD, Freitas MRGD, França MC, Gonçalves MVM, Marques W, Nascimento OJM, Oliveira ASB, Pereira RC, Pupe C, Rotta FT, Schestatsky P. Definition and diagnosis of small fiber neuropathy: consensus from the Peripheral Neuropathy Scientific Department of the Brazilian Academy of Neurology. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2018; 76:200-208. [PMID: 29809227 DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x20180015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to describe the results of a Brazilian Consensus on Small Fiber Neuropathy (SFN). Fifteen neurologists (members of the Brazilian Academy of Neurology) reviewed a preliminary draft. Eleven panelists got together in the city of Fortaleza to discuss and finish the text for the manuscript submission. Small fiber neuropathy can be defined as a subtype of neuropathy characterized by selective involvement of unmyelinated or thinly myelinated sensory fibers. Its clinical picture includes both negative and positive manifestations: sensory (pain/dysesthesias/pruritus) or combined sensory and autonomic complaints, associated with an almost entirely normal neurological examination. Standard electromyography is normal. A growing list of medical conditions is associated with SFN. The classification of SFN may also serve as a useful terminology to uncover minor discrepancies in the normal values from different neurophysiology laboratories. Several techniques may disclose sensory and/or autonomic impairment. Further studies are necessary to refine these techniques and develop specific therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amilton Antunes Barreira
- Departamento de Neurociências e Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - Rinaldo Claudino
- Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brasil
| | - Márcia Waddington Cruz
- Departamento de Neurologia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | | | | | | | | | - Wilson Marques
- Departamento de Neurociências e Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | | | | | | | - Camila Pupe
- Departamento de Neurologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, RJ, Brasil
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DETECTION OF SMALL FIBER NEUROPATHY IN PATIENTS WITH PULMONARY SARCOHIDOSIS. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pathophys.2018.07.171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Güneş HN, Bekircan-Kurt CE, Tan E, Erdem-Özdamar S. The histopathological evaluation of small fiber neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency. Acta Neurol Belg 2018; 118:405-410. [PMID: 29052170 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-017-0847-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Small fiber neuropathy (SFN), due to loss of A-delta and unmyelinated C fibers, is a cause of neuropathic pain. Although the patients with vitamin B12 deficiency are included in SFN studies in the literature, there is no histopathological study investigating the small fiber loss solely in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency. In this pilot study, we aim to demonstrate the intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) in skin punch biopsy of patients with vitamin B12 deficiency. Ten patients with vitamin B12 deficiency suffering from neuropathic pain and as control group ten patients with vitamin B12 deficiency without neuropathic pain were included. Neurological examination, electrophysiological evaluation, and DN4 questionnaire were performed. Subsequently, skin punch biopsy 10 cm above the lateral malleolus was done. The biopsy samples were stained with PGP9.5 antibody, and IENFD was determined. IENFD was low in two groups compared to their age normative values. The median of IENFD was 3.345 (1.12-5.32) in patients with neuropathic pain and 6. 20 (4.6-9.8) in controls (p < 0.001). Our pilot study showed that vitamin B12 deficiency causes symptomatic as well as asymptomatic small fiber loss like diabetes mellitus.
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65
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Raynaud's phenomenon in Northern Sweden: a population-based nested case-control study. Rheumatol Int 2018; 39:265-275. [PMID: 30128730 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-018-4133-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the association between individual and external exposure factors, and the reporting of Raynaud's phenomenon, with or without concomitant cold sensitivity. In a population-based nested case-control study, cases with Raynaud's phenomenon (N = 578), and matched controls (N = 1156), were asked to respond to a questionnaire focusing on different risk factors. Univariate and multiple conditional logistic regression were performed. Analyses were stratified according to whether the cases reported cold sensitivity or not. In total, 1400 out of 1734 study subjects answered the questionnaire (response rate 80.7%). In the final multiple model, the factor with the strongest association to Raynaud's phenomenon, with and without cold sensitivity, was previous frostbite affecting the hands (OR 12.44; 95% CI 5.84-26.52 and OR 4.01; 95% CI 1.78-9.01, respectively). Upper extremity nerve injury was associated to reporting Raynaud's phenomenon and cold sensitivity (OR 2.23; 95% CI 1.29-3.85), but not Raynaud's phenomenon alone. Reporting any exposure to hand-arm vibration or cumulative cold exposure was significant in univariate analyses for cases with both Raynaud's phenomenon and cold sensitivity, but not in the multiple model. Raynaud's phenomenon is strongly associated to previous cold injury, with a larger effect size among those who also report cold sensitivity. The fact that only upper extremity nerve injury differed significantly between case groups in our multiple model offers additional support to the neural basis for cold sensitivity.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article provides a conceptual framework for the evaluation of patients with suspected polyneuropathy to enhance the clinician's ability to localize and confirm peripheral nervous system pathology and, when possible, identify an etiologic diagnosis through use of rational clinical and judicious testing strategies. RECENT FINDINGS Although these strategies are largely time-honored, recent insights pertaining to the pathophysiology of certain immune-mediated neuropathies and to evolving genetic testing strategies may modify the way that select causes of neuropathy are conceptualized, evaluated, and managed. SUMMARY The strategies suggested in this article are intended to facilitate accurate bedside diagnosis in patients with suspected polyneuropathy and allow efficient and judicious use of supplementary testing and application of rational treatment when indicated.
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Normative data of contact heat evoked potentials from the lower extremities. Sci Rep 2018; 8:11003. [PMID: 30030450 PMCID: PMC6054620 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-29145-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Contact heat evoked potentials (CHEPs) have become an acknowledged research tool in the assessment of the integrity of the nociceptive system and gained importance in the diagnostic work-up of patients with suspected small fiber neuropathy. For the latter, normative values for CHEP amplitude and latency are indispensable for a clinically meaningful interpretation of the results gathered in patients. To this end, CHEPs were recorded in 100 healthy subjects over a wide age range (20–80 years) and from three different dermatomes of the lower extremities (L2, L5, and S2). A normal baseline (35–52 °C) and increased baseline stimulation (42–52 °C) were applied. Statistical analysis revealed significant effects of stimulation site, stimulation intensity, and sex on CHEP parameters (N2 latency, N2P2 amplitude, and NRS). Significant positive correlations of body height with N2 latency, and pain ratings with N2P2 amplitudes were observed. This is the first time that normative values have been obtained from multiple dermatomes of the lower extremities. The present dataset will facilitate the clinical application of CHEPs in the neurophysiological diagnosis of small fiber neuropathy and by discerning pathological findings help establish a proximal-distal gradient of nerve degeneration in polyneuropathies.
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68
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Stjernbrandt A, Carlsson D, Pettersson H, Liljelind I, Nilsson T, Wahlström J. Cold sensitivity and associated factors: a nested case-control study performed in Northern Sweden. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2018; 91:785-797. [PMID: 29808434 PMCID: PMC6132661 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-018-1327-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To identify factors associated with the reporting of cold sensitivity, by comparing cases to controls with regard to anthropometry, previous illnesses and injuries, as well as external exposures such as hand–arm vibration (HAV) and ambient cold. Methods Through a questionnaire responded to by the general population, ages 18–70, living in Northern Sweden (N = 12,627), cold sensitivity cases (N = 502) and matched controls (N = 1004) were identified, and asked to respond to a second questionnaire focusing on different aspects of cold sensitivity as well as individual and external exposure factors suggested to be related to the condition. Conditional logistic regression analyses were performed to determine statistical significance. Results In total, 997 out of 1506 study subjects answered the second questionnaire, yielding a response rate of 81.7%. In the multiple conditional logistic regression model, identified associated factors among cold sensitive cases were: frostbite affecting the hands (OR 10.3, 95% CI 5.5–19.3); rheumatic disease (OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.7–5.7); upper extremity nerve injury (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.3–3.0); migraines (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.3–4.3); and vascular disease (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.2–2.9). A body mass index ≥ 25 was inversely related to reporting of cold sensitivity (0.4, 95% CI 0.3–0.6). Conclusions Cold sensitivity was associated with both individual and external exposure factors. Being overweight was associated with a lower occurrence of cold sensitivity; and among the acquired conditions, both cold injuries, rheumatic diseases, nerve injuries, migraines and vascular diseases were associated with the reporting of cold sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albin Stjernbrandt
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden. .,Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital of Umeå, 901 85, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Daniel Carlsson
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Hans Pettersson
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ingrid Liljelind
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Tohr Nilsson
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Jens Wahlström
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden
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69
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Favoni V, Liguori R, Incensi A, Fileccia E, Donadio V. The incidental finding of elevated anti GQ1B antibodies in a patient with selective small fiber neuropathy. J Neurol Sci 2018; 388:192-194. [PMID: 29627021 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2018.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Small fiber neuropathy (SFN) selectively affects small diameter sensory and/or autonomic axons. Pain and autonomic dysfunctions are the most common symptoms. SFN occurs in several autoimmune diseases and autoantibodies against neuronal proteins may play a role in SFN pathophysiology. Anti-GQ1b antibody has been associated with Miller Fisher syndrome, Bickerstaff's brainstem encephalitis, acute ophthalmoplegia, pharyngeal-cervical-brachial weakness and peripheral neuropathy involving large fibers. Isolated SFN associated with anti-GQ1b antibodies has not been previously reported. Here we report a 45-year-old woman presenting with highly positive anti-GQ1b titer and selective SFN without central nervous system or peripheral large nerve involvement. She improved upon administration of adalizumab. Further studies will clarify a possible pathogenetic role of antiganglioside antibodies in SFN. Moreover, the recognition of antiganglioside antibodies in SFN may have therapeutic consequences with patients who would benefit from immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Favoni
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Rocco Liguori
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alex Incensi
- IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Enrico Fileccia
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Donadio
- IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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70
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Corneal nerve fiber size adds utility to the diagnosis and assessment of therapeutic response in patients with small fiber neuropathy. Sci Rep 2018; 8:4734. [PMID: 29549285 PMCID: PMC5856845 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-23107-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Small fiber neuropathy (SFN) is a common feature of many inflammatory diseases, often presenting with pain and disability. SFN is diagnosed using symptoms, thermal threshold testing, and intra-epidermal nerve fiber quantification. Corneal confocal microscopy (CCM) is an ophthalmic imaging technique which non-invasively quantifies corneal nerve fiber (CNF) density, branch density and length, and has comparable diagnostic and superior ability to identify nerve regeneration compared to skin biopsy. CNF size (width and area) depends upon the number of fibers within each nerve, as well as pathology (e.g., swelling), and may provide additional sensitivity to diagnose SFN and identify nerve repair. We have compared the utility of the standard CCM variables employed to CNF size in patients with diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy or sarcoidosis-associated SFN, and in patients with SFN following cibinetide administration, an agent which promotes nerve repair. The results show that: 1) CNF width distribution and area depend upon neuropathy severity; 2) CNF area, density, branch density and length possess comparable discriminatory power for diagnosing neuropathy; 3) CNF area is related to length by a quadratic function which is predictive for both healthy subjects and those with SFN; 4) CNF area is a useful variable for quantifying change in CNF morphology.
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71
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Chiang H, Chang KC, Kan HW, Wu SW, Tseng MT, Hsueh HW, Lin YH, Chao CC, Hsieh ST. Physiological and pathological characterization of capsaicin-induced reversible nerve degeneration and hyperalgesia. Eur J Pain 2018; 22:1043-1056. [DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H. Chiang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology; National Taiwan University College of Medicine; Taipei Taiwan
| | - K.-C. Chang
- Department of Neurology; National Taiwan University Hospital; Taipei Taiwan
| | - H.-W. Kan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology; National Taiwan University College of Medicine; Taipei Taiwan
| | - S.-W. Wu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology; National Taiwan University College of Medicine; Taipei Taiwan
- Department of Neurology; National Taiwan University Hospital; Taipei Taiwan
| | - M.-T. Tseng
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences; National Taiwan University College of Medicine; Taipei Taiwan
| | - H.-W. Hsueh
- Department of Neurology; National Taiwan University Hospital; Taipei Taiwan
| | - Y.-H. Lin
- Department of Neurology; National Taiwan University Hospital; Taipei Taiwan
| | - C.-C. Chao
- Department of Neurology; National Taiwan University Hospital; Taipei Taiwan
| | - S.-T. Hsieh
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology; National Taiwan University College of Medicine; Taipei Taiwan
- Department of Neurology; National Taiwan University Hospital; Taipei Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences; National Taiwan University College of Medicine; Taipei Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine; National Taiwan University College of Medicine; Taipei Taiwan
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72
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Abstract
This chapter reviews the diseases of the peripheral nerves from a neuropathologic point of view, with a special focus on specific morphologic changes, and includes a summary of the histopathologic methods available for their diagnosis. As the rate of obesity and the prevalence of type 2 diabetes increase, diabetic neuropathy is the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy. Many systemic disorders with metabolic origin, like amyloidosis, hepatic failure, vitamin deficiencies, uremia, lipid metabolism disorders, and others, can also cause axonal or myelin alterations in the peripheral nervous system. The most notable causes of toxic neuropathies are chemotherapeutic agents, alcohol consumption, and exposure to heavy metals and other environmental or biologic toxins. Inflammatory neuropathies cover infectious neuropathies (Lyme disease, human immunodeficiency virus, leprosy, hepatitis) and neuropathies of autoimmune origin (sarcoidosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome/acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, and diverse forms of vasculitis. The increasing number of known diseases causing gene mutations in hereditary peripheral neuropathies requires precise characterization, which includes histopathology.
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73
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Chae CS, Park GY, Choi YM, Jung S, Kim S, Sohn D, Im S. Rapid, Objective and Non-invasive Diagnosis of Sudomotor Dysfunction in Patients With Lower Extremity Dysesthesia: A Cross-Sectional Study. Ann Rehabil Med 2017; 41:1028-1038. [PMID: 29354580 PMCID: PMC5773423 DOI: 10.5535/arm.2017.41.6.1028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine whether patients with lumbosacral (LS) radiculopathy and peripheral polyneuropathy (PPNP) exhibit sudomotor abnormalities and whether SUDOSCAN (Impeto Medical, Paris, France) can complement nerve conduction study (NCS) and electromyography (EMG). Methods Outpatients with lower extremity dysesthesia underwent electrophysiologic studies and SUDOSCAN. They were classified as normal (group A), LS radiculopathy (group B), or PPNP (group C). Pain severity was measured by the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI) and visual analogue scale (VAS). Demographic features, electrochemical skin conductance (ESC) values on hands and feet, and SUDOSCAN-risk scores were analyzed. Results There were no statistical differences in MNSI and VAS among the three groups. Feet-ESC and hands-ESC values in group C were lower than group A and B. SUDOSCAN-risk score in group B and C was higher than group A. With a cut-off at 48 microSiemens of feet-ESC, PPNP was detected with 57.1% sensitivity and 94.2% specificity (area under the curve [AUC]=0.780; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0646-0.915). With a SUDOSCAN-risk score cut-off at 29%, NCS and EMG abnormalities related to LS radiculopathy and PPNP were detected with 64.1% sensitivity and 84.2% specificity (AUC=0.750; 95% CI, 0.674-0.886). Conclusion SUDOSCAN can discriminate outpatients with abnormal electrophysiological findings and sudomotor dysfunction. This technology may be a complementary tool to NCS and EMG in outpatients with lower extremity dysesthesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Choong Sik Chae
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Geun Young Park
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Bucheon St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Yong-Min Choi
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Dongsan Medical Center, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Sangeun Jung
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sungjun Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Donggyun Sohn
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Bucheon St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Sun Im
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Bucheon St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Korea
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Birnbaum J. Small fiber neuropathy presenting during the antecedent period of undifferentiated arthritis prior to rheumatoid arthritis. Neurol Clin Pract 2017; 7:e47-e50. [DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000000400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Hsieh YL, Kan HW, Chiang H, Lee YC, Hsieh ST. Distinct TrkA and Ret modulated negative and positive neuropathic behaviors in a mouse model of resiniferatoxin-induced small fiber neuropathy. Exp Neurol 2017; 300:87-99. [PMID: 29106982 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2017.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Revised: 10/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Neurotrophic factors and their corresponding receptors play key roles in the maintenance of different phenotypic dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, the axons of which degenerate in small fiber neuropathy, leading to various neuropathic manifestations. Mechanisms underlying positive and negative symptoms of small fiber neuropathy have not been systematically explored. This study investigated the molecular basis of these seemingly paradoxical neuropathic behaviors according to the profiles of TrkA and Ret with immunohistochemical and pharmacological interventions in a mouse model of resiniferatoxin (RTX)-induced small fiber neuropathy. Mice with RTX neuropathy exhibited thermal hypoalgesia and mechanical allodynia, reduced skin innervation, and altered DRG expression profiles with decreased TrkA(+) neurons and increased Ret(+) neurons. RTX neuropathy induced the expression of activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3), and ATF3(+) neurons were colocalized with Ret but not with TrkA (P<0.001). As a neuroprotectant, 4-Methylcatechol (4MC) promoted skin reinnervation partially with correlated reversal of the neuropathic behaviors and altered neurochemical expression. Gambogic amide, a selective TrkA agonist, normalized thermal hypoalgesia, and GW441756, a TrkA kinase inhibitor, induced thermal hypoalgesia, which was already reversed by 4MC. Mechanical allodynia was reversed by a Ret kinase inhibitor, AST487, which induced thermal hyperalgesia in naïve mice. The activation of Ret signaling by XIB4035 induced mechanical allodynia and thermal hypoalgesia in RTX neuropathy mice in which the neuropathic behaviors were previously normalized by 4MC. Distinct neurotrophic factor receptors, TrkA and Ret, accounted for negative and positive neuropathic behaviors in RTX-induced small fiber neuropathy, respectively: TrkA for thermal hypoalgesia and Ret for mechanical allodynia and thermal hypoalgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Lin Hsieh
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan.
| | - Hung-Wei Kan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
| | - Hao Chiang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan; Department of Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Eaton-Peabody Laboratory, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Yi-Chen Lee
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Sung-Tsang Hsieh
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan; Department of Neurology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Science, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan.
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76
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Hsu JL, Liao MF, Hsu HC, Weng YC, Lo AL, Chang KH, Chang HS, Kuo HC, Huang CC, Ro LS. A prospective, observational study of patients with uncommon distal symmetric painful small-fiber neuropathy. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0183948. [PMID: 28957343 PMCID: PMC5619719 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0183948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the clinical characteristics of patients with uncommon distal symmetric painful small-fiber neuropathy (DSPSFN). Methods From September 2012 to September 2014, participants between 18–70 years of age that had DSPSFN defined by clinical signs/symptoms and ID pain > 2 or DN4 > 4 on questionnaires for more than 1 month were included. Participants who had previous historical or laboratory evidence of common etiologies of DSPSFN were excluded. Enzyme activity and genetic studies for Fabry diseaseand familial amyloid polyneuropathy were performed after participants fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The cryoglobulin test, autoantibodies studies and electrophysiological studies were performed in these participants. Results In total, 100 cases were enrolled in the current study. Three cases of subclinical diabetes mellitus and two cases of fibromyalgia were found. Fabry disease (1%) and familial amyloid polyneuropathy (3%) with Ala97Ser transthyretin (TTR) mutations were also detected. The cryoglobulin test was positive in 30% of participants, and these participants had higher DN4 scores than the negative group. In the autoantibodies studies, 59% of the participants had abnormal anti-Ro/SSA and/or anti-La/SSB antibodies. Conclusions Cryoglobulinemia is not a rare etiology of uncommon DSPSFN. The long-term prognosis is quite good in these participants. From our structuralized protocol, Fabry disease and familial amyloid polyneuropathy could be easily detected in these cases of uncommon DSPSFN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Lung Hsu
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Taipei Medical University, Graduate Institute of Humanities in Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Taipei Medical University Research Center for Brain and Consciousness, Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Feng Liao
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ching Hsu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Division of Chinese Acupuncture and Traumatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ching Weng
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ai-Lun Lo
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Hsuan Chang
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Shiu Chang
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Chou Kuo
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Chang Huang
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Long-Sun Ro
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
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77
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AbdelRazek MA, Chwalisz B, Oaklander AL, Venna N. Evidence of small-fiber neuropathy (SFN) in two patients with unexplained genital sensory loss and sensory urinary cystopathy. J Neurol Sci 2017; 380:82-84. [PMID: 28870595 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2017.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2017] [Revised: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud A AbdelRazek
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Bart Chwalisz
- Department of Neuro-ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Anne Louise Oaklander
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pathology (Neuropathology), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Nagagopal Venna
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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78
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Burström L, Björ B, Nilsson T, Pettersson H, Rödin I, Wahlström J. Thermal perception thresholds among workers in a cold climate. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2017; 90:645-652. [PMID: 28497276 PMCID: PMC5583265 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-017-1227-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To investigate whether exposure to cold could influence the thermal perception thresholds in a working population. Methods This cross-sectional study was comprised of 251 males and females and was carried out at two mines in the northern part of Norway and Sweden. The testing included a baseline questionnaire, a clinical examination and measurements of thermal perception thresholds, on both hands, the index (Digit 2) and little (Digit 5) fingers, for heat and cold. Results The thermal perception thresholds were affected by age, gender and test site. The thresholds were impaired by experiences of frostbite in the fingers and the use of medication that potentially could affect neurosensory functions. No differences were found between the calculated normative values for these workers and those in other comparative investigations conducted in warmer climates. Conclusions The study provided no support for the hypothesis that living and working in cold climate will lead to impaired thermal perception thresholds. Exposure to cold that had caused localized damage in the form of frostbite was shown to lead to impaired thermal perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lage Burström
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden. .,Arcum, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Bodil Björ
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden.,Arcum, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Tohr Nilsson
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden.,Arcum, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Hans Pettersson
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden.,Arcum, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ingemar Rödin
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway.,Swedish Work Environment Authority, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jens Wahlström
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden.,Arcum, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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79
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Abstract
Although animal models of pain have brought invaluable information on basic processes underlying pain pathophysiology, translation to humans is a problem. This Review will summarize what information has been gained by the direct study of patients with chronic pain. The techniques discussed range from patient phenotyping using quantitative sensory testing to specialized nociceptor neurophysiology, imaging methods of peripheral nociceptors, analyses of body fluids, genetics and epigenetics, and the generation of sensory neurons from patients via inducible pluripotent stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Sommer
- Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Straße 11, D-97080 Würzburg, Germany.
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80
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Langlois V, Bedat Millet AL, Lebesnerais M, Miranda S, Marguet F, Benhamou Y, Marcorelles P, Lévesque H. [Small fiber neuropathy]. Rev Med Interne 2017; 39:99-106. [PMID: 28410768 DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2017.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2017] [Accepted: 03/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Small fiber neuropathy (SFN) is still unknown. Characterised by neuropathic pain, it typically begins by burning feet, but could take many other expression. SFN affects the thinly myelinated Aδ and unmyelinated C-fibers, by an inherited or acquired mechanism, which could lead to paresthesia, thermoalgic disorder or autonomic dysfunction. Recent studies suggest the preponderant role of ion channels such as Nav1.7. Furthermore, erythromelalgia or burning mouth syndrome are now recognized as real SFN. Various aetiologies of SFN are described. It could be isolated or associated with diabetes, impaired glucose metabolism, vitamin deficiency, alcohol, auto-immune disease, sarcoidosis etc. Several mutations have recently been identified, like Nav1.7 channel leading to channelopathies. Diagnostic management is based primarily on clinical examination and demonstration of small fiber dysfunction. Laser evoked potentials, Sudoscan®, cutaneous biopsy are the main test, but had a difficult access. Treatment is based on multidisciplinary management, combining symptomatic treatment, psychological management and treatment of an associated etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Langlois
- Service de médecine interne et maladies infectieuses, CH Le Havre, 29, avenue Pierre-Mendès, 76290 Montivilliers, France; U1096, service de médecine interne, Normandie univ, UNIROUEN, 76000 Rouen, France.
| | - A-L Bedat Millet
- Département de neurophysiologie, CHU de Rouen, 1, rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen, France
| | - M Lebesnerais
- U1096, service de médecine interne, Normandie univ, UNIROUEN, 76000 Rouen, France
| | - S Miranda
- U1096, service de médecine interne, Normandie univ, UNIROUEN, 76000 Rouen, France
| | - F Marguet
- Département d'anatomie et cytologie pathologiques, CHU de Rouen, 1, rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen, France
| | - Y Benhamou
- U1096, service de médecine interne, Normandie univ, UNIROUEN, 76000 Rouen, France
| | - P Marcorelles
- Département d'anatomie et cytologie pathologiques, hôpital Morvan, centre hospitalier régional et universitaire de Brest, 2, avenue Foch, 29609 Brest cedex, France
| | - H Lévesque
- U1096, service de médecine interne, Normandie univ, UNIROUEN, 76000 Rouen, France
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Abstract
Objective To review the clinical entity of primary burning mouth syndrome (BMS), its pathophysiological mechanisms, accurate new diagnostic methods and evidence-based treatment options, and to describe novel lines for future research regarding aetiology, pathophysiology, and new therapeutic strategies. Description Primary BMS is a chronic neuropathic intraoral pain condition that despite typical symptoms lacks clear clinical signs of neuropathic involvement. With advanced diagnostic methods, such as quantitative sensory testing of small somatosensory and taste afferents, neurophysiological recordings of the trigeminal system, and peripheral nerve blocks, most BMS patients can be classified into the peripheral or central type of neuropathic pain. These two types differ regarding pathophysiological mechanisms, efficacy of available treatments, and psychiatric comorbidity. The two types may overlap in individual patients. BMS is most frequent in postmenopausal women, with general population prevalence of around 1%. Treatment of BMS is difficult; best evidence exists for efficacy of topical and systemic clonazepam. Hormonal substitution, dopaminergic medications, and therapeutic non-invasive neuromodulation may provide efficient mechanism-based treatments for BMS in the future. Conclusion We present a novel comprehensive hypothesis of primary BMS, gathering the hormonal, neuropathic, and genetic factors presumably required in the genesis of the condition. This will aid in future research on pathophysiology and risk factors of BMS, and boost treatment trials taking into account individual mechanism profiles and subgroup-clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satu K Jääskeläinen
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Alain Woda
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CROC and University Hospital, Odontology department; Clermont-Ferrand, France
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82
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Geraldes T, Casasnovas Pons C. Causes of neuropathy in patients referred as “Idiopathic neuropathy”. Muscle Nerve 2017; 55:290-291. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.25428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Revised: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Geraldes
- Neurology Department; Hospital Garcia de Orta; Almada Portugal
| | - Carlos Casasnovas Pons
- Neurology Department; Neuromuscular Unit, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge - IDIBELL; Barcelona Spain
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83
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Treister R, Lodahl M, Lang M, Tworoger SS, Sawilowsky S, Oaklander AL. Initial Development and Validation of a Patient-Reported Symptom Survey for Small-Fiber Polyneuropathy. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2017; 18:556-563. [PMID: 28063957 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2016.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Revised: 12/11/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Small-fiber polyneuropathy (SFPN) affects unmyelinated and thinly myelinated peripheral axons. Several questionnaires have been developed to assess polyneuropathy from diabetes or chemotherapy, but none for SFPN from other or unknown causes. A comprehensive survey could help clinicians diagnose and assess treatment responses, define prevalence natural history and cures, and identify research subjects. Thus, we developed the 1-page Small-Fiber Symptom Survey, using input from patients and 21 medical/scientific experts. Participants comprised consenting consecutive patients evaluated for SFPN at the Massachusetts General Hospital plus normal control subjects. Participants SFPN status was stratified on the basis of the results of their objective diagnostic tests (distal leg skin biopsy and autonomic function testing). We measured internal consistency, test retest reliability, convergent validity, and performed a receiver operating curve analysis. The 179 participants averaged 46.6 ± 15.6 years old; they were 73.2% female and 92.2% Caucasian. Eighty-five had confirmed SFPN, mostly idiopathic. Principal component analysis revealed 5 symptom clusters. The questionnaire had good internal consistency (Cronbach α = .893), excellent test retest reliability (r = .927, P < .001) and good to fair convergent validity. Participants with confirmed SFPN had more severe symptoms than others (P = .009). The Small-Fiber Symptom Survey has satisfactory psychometric properties, indicating potential future utility for surveying patient-reported symptoms of SFPN regardless of its cause. PERSPECTIVE This article reports the initial development and early psychometric validation of a new patient-reported outcome measure intended to capture the wide range of multisystem symptoms of SFPN. When further developed, it could potentially help clinicians diagnose and monitor patients, and help advance research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roi Treister
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Mette Lodahl
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Magdalena Lang
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Shelley S Tworoger
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Anne Louise Oaklander
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Pathology (Neuropathology), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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Lang M, Treister R, Oaklander AL. Diagnostic value of blood tests for occult causes of initially idiopathic small-fiber polyneuropathy. J Neurol 2016; 263:2515-2527. [PMID: 27730378 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-016-8270-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2016] [Revised: 08/11/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Small-fiber polyneuropathy (SFPN) causes non-specific symptoms including chronic pain, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and sweating complaints. Diagnosis is made from history and exam in patients with known risk factors such as diabetes, but objective test confirmation is recommended for patients without known risks. If tests confirm SFPN, and it is "initially idiopathic" (iiSFPN), screening for occult causes is indicated. This study's aim was to evaluate the 21 widely available, recommended blood tests to identify the most cost-effective ones and to learn about occult causes of iiSFPN. Records were reviewed from all 213 patients with SFPN confirmed by distal-leg skin biopsy, nerve biopsy, or autonomic-function testing in our academic center during 2013. We determined the prevalence of each abnormal blood-test result (ABTR) in the iiSFPN cohort, compared this to population averages, and measured the costs of screening subjects to obtain one ABTR. Participants were 70 % female and aged 43.0 ± 18.6 years. High erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and antinuclear antibody (ANA; ≥1:160 titer) were most common, each present in 28 % of subjects. The ABTR ≥3 × more prevalent in iiSFPN than in the total population were high ESR, high ANA, low C3, and Sjögren's and celiac autoantibodies. Together, these suggest the possibility of a specific association between iiSFPN and dysimmunity. ABTR identifying diabetes, prediabetes, and hypertriglyceridemia were less common in iiSFPN than in the population and thus were not associated with iiSFPN here. The six most cost-effective iiSFPN-associated blood tests-ESR, ANA, C3, autoantibodies for Sjögren's and celiac, plus thyroid-stimulating hormone-had estimated cost of $99.57/person and 45.6 % probability of obtaining one abnormal result. Angiotensin-converting enzyme was elevated in 45 %, but no patients had sarcoidosis, so this test was futile here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Lang
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 275 Charles St./Warren Bldg. 310, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Roi Treister
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 275 Charles St./Warren Bldg. 310, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Anne Louise Oaklander
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 275 Charles St./Warren Bldg. 310, Boston, MA, 02114, USA. .,Department of Pathology (Neuropathology), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
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Abstract
The Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is one of the few neuropathies well known to the general public, in part because of its association with swine flu vaccinations in 1976. GBS has again reached the general public with its possible association with Zika virus. The virus, borne by infected Aedes aegypti mosquitos, is being linked to birth defects when pregnant women are bitten and infected. There are early reports also linking GBS to Zika infection, which could expose a wider range of infected people to the neuropathy. This summer infected Aedes mosquitos will likely reach southern portions of the United States, and travelers to countries where Aedes is endemic will increase. It is important to appreciate that the neurologic consequences of Zika virus are being actively investigated, and firm associations and consequences are yet to be established. Small fiber neuropathies are common and can be due to a number of underlying diseases, and a recent review also indicates that many are idiopathic. One cause is Sjögren syndrome, and a case series reviews clinical features. The diagnosis and underlying features of primary lateral sclerosis are a clinical challenge. Similarities between primary lateral sclerosis and hereditary spastic paraparesis (HSP) have long been noted. With a wide spectrum of gene mutations associated with HSP, clinical distinction between the 2 disorders is problematic. A review covers the wide spectrum of HSP. With no cure, the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to respiratory failure is predictable. This could easily result in marked depression among patients, and 2 studies have explored the frequency and severity of depression. The cause of ALS remains unknown, and when no hereditary factor is apparent, environmental questions arise as possible contributing factor(s). The most notable association is with military service, although specific occupational or environmental linkages are not well sorted out. Two recent reports address these issues. There is good news for ALS patients with muscle cramps with the results of a multicenter randomized and placebo-controlled trial showing that mexiletine is effective in reducing this common symptom. The treatment of myasthenia gravis with various agents, the use of patient-reported outcome measures in myasthenia gravis, and the occurrence of myocarditis in this disease are reviewed. Necrotizing autoimmune neuropathies, the co-occurrence of inclusion body myositis and a form of T-cell leukemia are discussed as are valosin-containing protein (VCP)-opathy and bone health in patients with dystrophinopathy.
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