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Destrebecq V, Rovai A, Trotta N, Comet C, Naeije G. Proprioceptive and tactile processing in individuals with Friedreich ataxia: an fMRI study. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1224345. [PMID: 37808498 PMCID: PMC10556689 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1224345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Friedreich ataxia (FA) neuropathology affects dorsal root ganglia, posterior columns in the spinal cord, the spinocerebellar tracts, and cerebellar dentate nuclei. The impact of the somatosensory system on ataxic symptoms remains debated. This study aims to better evaluate the contribution of somatosensory processing to ataxia clinical severity by simultaneously investigating passive movement and tactile pneumatic stimulation in individuals with FA. Methods Twenty patients with FA and 20 healthy participants were included. All subjects underwent two 6 min block-design functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) paradigms consisting of twelve 30 s alternating blocks (10 brain volumes per block, 120 brain volumes per paradigm) of a tactile oddball paradigm and a passive movement paradigm. Spearman rank correlation tests were used for correlations between BOLD levels and ataxia severity. Results The passive movement paradigm led to the lower activation of primary (cSI) and secondary somatosensory cortices (cSII) in FA compared with healthy subjects (respectively 1.1 ± 0.78 vs. 0.61 ± 1.02, p = 0.04, and 0.69 ± 0.5 vs. 0.3 ± 0.41, p = 0.005). In the tactile paradigm, there was no significant difference between cSI and cSII activation levels in healthy controls and FA (respectively 0.88 ± 0.73 vs. 1.14 ± 0.99, p = 0.33, and 0.54 ± 0.37 vs. 0.55 ± 0.54, p = 0.93). Correlation analysis showed a significant correlation between cSI activation levels in the tactile paradigm and the clinical severity (R = 0.481, p = 0.032). Interpretation Our study captured the difference between tactile and proprioceptive impairments in FA using somatosensory fMRI paradigms. The lack of correlation between the proprioceptive paradigm and ataxia clinical parameters supports a low contribution of afferent ataxia to FA clinical severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Destrebecq
- Laboratoire de Neuroanatomie et de Neuroimagerie translationnelles (LNT), UNI – ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, CUB Hôpital Erasme, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Antonin Rovai
- Laboratoire de Neuroanatomie et de Neuroimagerie translationnelles (LNT), UNI – ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nicola Trotta
- Laboratoire de Neuroanatomie et de Neuroimagerie translationnelles (LNT), UNI – ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Camille Comet
- Department of Neurology, CUB Hôpital Erasme, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gilles Naeije
- Laboratoire de Neuroanatomie et de Neuroimagerie translationnelles (LNT), UNI – ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, CUB Hôpital Erasme, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
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2
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Enders J, Jack J, Thomas S, Lynch P, Lasnier S, Cao X, Swanson MT, Ryals JM, Thyfault JP, Puchalska P, Crawford PA, Wright DE. Ketolysis is required for the proper development and function of the somatosensory nervous system. Exp Neurol 2023; 365:114428. [PMID: 37100111 PMCID: PMC10765955 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Ketogenic diets are emerging as protective interventions in preclinical and clinical models of somatosensory nervous system disorders. Additionally, dysregulation of succinyl-CoA 3-oxoacid CoA-transferase 1 (SCOT, encoded by Oxct1), the fate-committing enzyme in mitochondrial ketolysis, has recently been described in Friedreich's ataxia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. However, the contribution of ketone metabolism in the normal development and function of the somatosensory nervous system remains poorly characterized. We generated sensory neuron-specific, Advillin-Cre knockout of SCOT (Adv-KO-SCOT) mice and characterized the structure and function of their somatosensory system. We used histological techniques to assess sensory neuronal populations, myelination, and skin and spinal dorsal horn innervation. We also examined cutaneous and proprioceptive sensory behaviors with the von Frey test, radiant heat assay, rotarod, and grid-walk tests. Adv-KO-SCOT mice exhibited myelination deficits, altered morphology of putative Aδ soma from the dorsal root ganglion, reduced cutaneous innervation, and abnormal innervation of the spinal dorsal horn compared to wildtype mice. Synapsin 1-Cre-driven knockout of Oxct1 confirmed deficits in epidermal innervation following a loss of ketone oxidation. Loss of peripheral axonal ketolysis was further associated with proprioceptive deficits, yet Adv-KO-SCOT mice did not exhibit drastically altered cutaneous mechanical and thermal thresholds. Knockout of Oxct1 in peripheral sensory neurons resulted in histological abnormalities and severe proprioceptive deficits in mice. We conclude that ketone metabolism is essential for the development of the somatosensory nervous system. These findings also suggest that decreased ketone oxidation in the somatosensory nervous system may explain the neurological symptoms of Friedreich's ataxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Enders
- Departments of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States of America
| | - Jarrid Jack
- Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States of America
| | - Sarah Thomas
- Departments of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States of America
| | - Paige Lynch
- Departments of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States of America
| | - Sarah Lasnier
- Departments of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States of America
| | - Xin Cao
- Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States of America
| | - M Taylor Swanson
- Departments of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States of America
| | - Janelle M Ryals
- Departments of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States of America
| | - John P Thyfault
- Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States of America; Internal Medicine - Division of Endocrinology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States of America; KU Diabetes Institute, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States of America
| | - Patrycja Puchalska
- Department of Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, United States of America
| | - Peter A Crawford
- Department of Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, United States of America; Department of Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States of America
| | - Douglas E Wright
- Departments of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States of America; KU Diabetes Institute, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States of America.
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3
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Enders J, Jack J, Thomas S, Lynch P, Lasnier S, Cao X, Swanson MT, Ryals JM, Thyfault JP, Puchalska P, Crawford PA, Wright DE. Ketolysis is Required for the Proper Development and Function of the Somatosensory Nervous System. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.11.523492. [PMID: 36711538 PMCID: PMC9882096 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.11.523492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Ketogenic diets are emerging as protective interventions in preclinical and clinical models of somatosensory nervous system disorders. Additionally, dysregulation of succinyl-CoA 3-oxoacid CoA-transferase 1 (SCOT, encoded by Oxct1 ), the fate-committing enzyme in mitochondrial ketolysis, has recently been described in Friedreich's ataxia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. However, the contribution of ketone metabolism in the normal development and function of the somatosensory nervous system remains poorly characterized. We generated sensory neuron-specific, Advillin-Cre knockout of SCOT (Adv-KO-SCOT) mice and characterized the structure and function of their somatosensory system. We used histological techniques to assess sensory neuronal populations, myelination, and skin and spinal dorsal horn innervation. We also examined cutaneous and proprioceptive sensory behaviors with the von Frey test, radiant heat assay, rotarod, and grid-walk tests. Adv-KO-SCOT mice exhibited myelination deficits, altered morphology of putative Aδ soma from the dorsal root ganglion, reduced cutaneous innervation, and abnormal innervation of the spinal dorsal horn compared to wildtype mice. Synapsin 1-Cre-driven knockout of Oxct1 confirmed deficits in epidermal innervation following a loss of ketone oxidation. Loss of peripheral axonal ketolysis was further associated with proprioceptive deficits, yet Adv-KO-SCOT mice did not exhibit drastically altered cutaneous mechanical and thermal thresholds. Knockout of Oxct1 in peripheral sensory neurons resulted in histological abnormalities and severe proprioceptive deficits in mice. We conclude that ketone metabolism is essential for the development of the somatosensory nervous system. These findings also suggest that decreased ketone oxidation in the somatosensory nervous system may explain the neurological symptoms of Friedreich's ataxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Enders
- Departments of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160
| | - Jarrid Jack
- Departments of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160
| | - Sarah Thomas
- Departments of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160
| | - Paige Lynch
- Departments of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160
| | - Sarah Lasnier
- Departments of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160
| | - Xin Cao
- Departments of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160
| | - M Taylor Swanson
- Departments of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160
| | - Janelle M Ryals
- Departments of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160
| | - John P Thyfault
- Departments of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160
- Internal Medicine - Division of Endocrinology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160
- KU Diabetes Institute, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160
| | - Patrycja Puchalska
- Department of Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
| | - Peter A Crawford
- Department of Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
- Department of Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
| | - Douglas E Wright
- Departments of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160
- KU Diabetes Institute, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160
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Differences between finger and toe Meissner corpuscles: Searching for the optimal place to analyze meissner corpuscles in cutaneous biopsy. TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH IN ANATOMY 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tria.2023.100234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
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5
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Raicher I, Ravagnani LHC, Correa SG, Dobo C, Mangueira CLP, Macarenco RSES. Investigation of nerve fibers in the skin by biopsy: technical aspects, indications, and contribution to diagnosis of small-fiber neuropathy. EINSTEIN-SAO PAULO 2022; 20:eMD8044. [PMID: 35830153 PMCID: PMC9262281 DOI: 10.31744/einstein_journal/2022md8044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin biopsy with investigation of small-diameter nerve fibers in human epidermis and dermis has been proven to be a useful method for confirming small-fiber neuropathy. In medical practice, small-fiber neuropathy is increasingly recognized as a leading cause of neuropathic pain. It is a prevalent complaint in medical offices, brought by patients often as a “painful burning sensation”. The prevalence of neuropathic pain is high in small-fiber neuropathies of different etiologies, especially in the elderly; 7% of population in this age group present peripheral neuropathy. Pain and paresthesia are symptoms which might cause disability and impair quality of life of patients. The early detection of small-fiber neuropathy can contribute to reducing unhealthy lifestyles, associated to higher incidence of the disease.
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Muñoz-Lasso DC, Mollá B, Sáenz-Gamboa JJ, Insuasty E, de la Iglesia-Vaya M, Pook MA, Pallardó FV, Palau F, Gonzalez-Cabo P. Frataxin Deficit Leads to Reduced Dynamics of Growth Cones in Dorsal Root Ganglia Neurons of Friedreich’s Ataxia YG8sR Model: A Multilinear Algebra Approach. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:912780. [PMID: 35769335 PMCID: PMC9236133 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.912780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Computational techniques for analyzing biological images offer a great potential to enhance our knowledge of the biological processes underlying disorders of the nervous system. Friedreich’s Ataxia (FRDA) is a rare progressive neurodegenerative inherited disorder caused by the low expression of frataxin, which is a small mitochondrial protein. In FRDA cells, the lack of frataxin promotes primarily mitochondrial dysfunction, an alteration of calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis and the destabilization of the actin cytoskeleton in the neurites and growth cones of sensory neurons. In this paper, a computational multilinear algebra approach was used to analyze the dynamics of the growth cone and its function in control and FRDA neurons. Computational approach, which includes principal component analysis and a multilinear algebra method, is used to quantify the dynamics of the growth cone (GC) morphology of sensory neurons from the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) of the YG8sR humanized murine model for FRDA. It was confirmed that the dynamics and patterns of turning were aberrant in the FRDA growth cones. In addition, our data suggest that other cellular processes dependent on functional GCs such as axonal regeneration might also be affected. Semiautomated computational approaches are presented to quantify differences in GC behaviors in neurodegenerative disease. In summary, the deficiency of frataxin has an adverse effect on the formation and, most importantly, the growth cones’ function in adult DRG neurons. As a result, frataxin deficient DRG neurons might lose the intrinsic capability to grow and regenerate axons properly due to the dysfunctional GCs they build.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana C. Muñoz-Lasso
- Chemical Biology Group, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - Belén Mollá
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Valencia, Spain
| | - Jhon J. Sáenz-Gamboa
- Brain Connectivity Laboratory, Joint Unit FISABIO & Prince Felipe Research Centre (CIPF), Valencia, Spain
- Regional Ministry of Health in Valencia, Hospital Sagunto (CEIB-CSUSP), Valencia, Spain
- CIBER de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Maria de la Iglesia-Vaya
- Brain Connectivity Laboratory, Joint Unit FISABIO & Prince Felipe Research Centre (CIPF), Valencia, Spain
- Regional Ministry of Health in Valencia, Hospital Sagunto (CEIB-CSUSP), Valencia, Spain
- CIBER de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Valencia, Spain
| | - Mark A. Pook
- Biosciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
| | - Federico V. Pallardó
- CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Valencia, Spain
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | - Francesc Palau
- CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Valencia, Spain
- Department of Genetic and Molecular Medicine IPER, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
- Division of Pediatrics, University of Barcelona School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pilar Gonzalez-Cabo
- CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Valencia, Spain
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
- *Correspondence: Pilar Gonzalez-Cabo,
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7
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The puzzle of fibromyalgia between central sensitization syndrome and small fiber neuropathy: a narrative review on neurophysiological and morphological evidence. Neurol Sci 2022; 43:1667-1684. [PMID: 35028777 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05806-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Fibromyalgia (FM) is a condition characterized by chronic widespread pain whose pathogenesis is still not fully defined. Evidence based on structural and functional neuroimaging methods, electrophysiological, and morphological - skin biopsy - features demonstrated a central and peripheral nervous system involvement. A dysfunction in nociceptive inputs processing at the central level was highlighted as the primary cause of FM, but other data coming from different laboratories contributed to emphasize again the peripheral origin of FM. In fact, small fibers neuropathy (SFN) was observed in a large number of patients submitted to skin biopsy. The complex interaction between central and peripheral factors is opening a new scenario about the management of this neurological disorder. Whether proximal SFN is an initiating event leading to FM or is the consequence of stress-related insular hyper excitability remains unclear. Mild sufferance of peripheral afferents could function as a trigger for an exaggerated response of the so-called "salience matrix" in predisposed individuals. On the other side, the intriguing hypothesis rising from animal models could indicate that the cortical hyper function could cause peripheral small afferent damage. The research should go on the genetic origin of such peripheral and central abnormalities, the acquired facilitating factors, and the presence of different phenotypes in order to search for efficacious treatments, which are still lacking.
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8
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Lees JG, Napierala M, Pébay A, Dottori M, Lim SY. Cellular pathophysiology of Friedreich's ataxia cardiomyopathy. Int J Cardiol 2022; 346:71-78. [PMID: 34798207 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2021.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) is a hereditary neuromuscular disorder. Cardiomyopathy is the leading cause of premature death in FRDA. FRDA cardiomyopathy is a complex and progressive disease with no cure or treatment to slow its progression. At the cellular level, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, apoptosis and fibrosis contribute to the cardiac pathology. However, the heart is composed of multiple cell types and several clinical studies have reported the involvement of cardiac non-myocytes such as vascular cells, autonomic neurons, and inflammatory cells in the pathogenesis of FRDA cardiomyopathy. In fact, several of the cardiac pathologies associated with FRDA including cardiomyocyte necrosis, fibrosis, and arrhythmia, could be contributed to by a diseased vasculature and autonomic dysfunction. Here, we review available evidence regarding the current understanding of cellular mechanisms for, and the involvement of, cardiac non-myocytes in the pathogenesis of FRDA cardiomyopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarmon G Lees
- O'Brien Institute Department, St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia; Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Marek Napierala
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Alice Pébay
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia; Department of Surgery, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Mirella Dottori
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Shiang Y Lim
- O'Brien Institute Department, St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia; Department of Surgery, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.
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9
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Gemignani F, Bellanova MF, Saccani E, Pavesi G. Non-length-dependent small fiber neuropathy: Not a matter of stockings and gloves. Muscle Nerve 2021; 65:10-28. [PMID: 34374103 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The clinical spectrum of small fiber neuropathy (SFN) encompasses manifestations related to the involvement of thinly myelinated A-delta and unmyelinated C fibers, including not only the classical distal phenotype, but also a non-length-dependent (NLD) presentation that can be patchy, asymmetrical, upper limb-predominant, or diffuse. This narrative review is focused on NLD-SFN. The diagnosis of NLD-SFN can be problematic, due to its varied and often atypical presentation, and diagnostic criteria developed for distal SFN are not suitable for NLD-SFN. The topographic pattern of NLD-SFN is likely related to ganglionopathy restricted to the small neurons of dorsal root ganglia. It is often associated with systemic diseases, but about half the time is idiopathic. In comparison with distal SFN, immune-mediated diseases are more common than dysmetabolic conditions. Treatment is usually based on the management of neuropathic pain. Disease-modifying therapy, including immunotherapy, may be effective in patients with identified causes. Future research on NLD-SFN is expected to further clarify the interconnected aspects of phenotypic characterization, diagnostic criteria, and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franco Gemignani
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria F Bellanova
- Laboratory of Neuromuscular Histopathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Elena Saccani
- Neurology Unit, Department of Specialized Medicine, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giovanni Pavesi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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Koohi N, Thomas-Black G, Giunti P, Bamiou DE. Auditory Phenotypic Variability in Friedreich's Ataxia Patients. THE CEREBELLUM 2021; 20:497-508. [PMID: 33599954 PMCID: PMC8360871 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-021-01236-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Auditory neural impairment is a key clinical feature of Friedreich’s Ataxia (FRDA). We aimed to characterize the phenotypical spectrum of the auditory impairment in FRDA in order to facilitate early identification and timely management of auditory impairment in FRDA patients and to explore the relationship between the severity of auditory impairment with genetic variables (the expansion size of GAA trinucleotide repeats, GAA1 and GAA2), when controlled for variables such as disease duration, severity of the disease and cognitive status. Twenty-seven patients with genetically confirmed FRDA underwent baseline audiological assessment (pure-tone audiometry, otoacoustic emissions, auditory brainstem response). Twenty of these patients had additional psychophysical auditory processing evaluation including an auditory temporal processing test (gaps in noise test) and a binaural speech perception test that assesses spatial processing (Listening in Spatialized Noise-Sentences Test). Auditory spatial and auditory temporal processing ability were significantly associated with the repeat length of GAA1. Patients with GAA1 greater than 500 repeats had more severe auditory temporal and spatial processing deficits, leading to poorer speech perception. Furthermore, the spatial processing ability was strongly correlated with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score. To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate an association between genotype and auditory spatial processing phenotype in patients with FRDA. Auditory temporal processing, neural sound conduction, spatial processing and speech perception were more severely affected in patients with GAA1 greater than 500 repeats. The results of our study may indicate that auditory deprivation plays a role in the development of mild cognitive impairment in FRDA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nehzat Koohi
- The Ear Institute, University College London, London, WC1X 8EE, UK. .,Neuro-otology Department, University College London Hospitals, London, WC1E 6DG, UK. .,Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, WC1N 3BG, UK.
| | - Gilbert Thomas-Black
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, WC1N 3BG, UK.,Ataxia Centre, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Paola Giunti
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, WC1N 3BG, UK. .,Ataxia Centre, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals, London, WC1N 3BG, UK.
| | - Doris-Eva Bamiou
- The Ear Institute, University College London, London, WC1X 8EE, UK. .,Neuro-otology Department, University College London Hospitals, London, WC1E 6DG, UK. .,Biomedical Research Centre, National Institute for Health Research, London, WC1E 6DG, UK.
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11
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Contribution of Skin Biopsy in Peripheral Neuropathies. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10120989. [PMID: 33333929 PMCID: PMC7765344 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10120989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last three decades the study of cutaneous innervation through 3 mm-punch-biopsy has provided an important contribution to the knowledge of small fiber somatic and autonomic neuropathies but also of large fiber neuropathies. Skin biopsy is a minimally invasive technique with the advantage, compared to sural nerve biopsy, of being suitable to be applied to any site in our body, of being repeatable over time, of allowing the identification of each population of nerve fiber through its target. In patients with symptoms and signs of small fiber neuropathy the assessment of IntraEpidermal Nerve Fiber density is the gold standard to confirm the diagnosis while the quantification of sudomotor, pilomotor, and vasomotor nerve fibers allows to evaluate and characterize the autonomic involvement. All these parameters can be re-evaluated over time to monitor the disease process and to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatments. Myelinated fibers and their receptors can also be evaluated to detect a “dying back” neuropathy early when nerve conduction study is still normal. Furthermore, the morphometry of dermal myelinated fibers has provided new insight into pathophysiological mechanisms of different types of inherited and acquired large fibers neuropathies. In genetic neuropathies skin biopsy has become a surrogate for sural nerve biopsy, no longer necessary in the diagnostic process, to study genotype–phenotype correlations.
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12
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Devigili G, Rinaldo S, Lombardi R, Cazzato D, Marchi M, Salvi E, Eleopra R, Lauria G. Diagnostic criteria for small fibre neuropathy in clinical practice and research. Brain 2019; 142:3728-3736. [PMID: 31665231 PMCID: PMC6906595 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awz333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The diagnostic criteria for small fibre neuropathy are not established, influencing the approach to patients in clinical practice, their access to disease-modifying and symptomatic treatments, the use of healthcare resources, and the design of clinical trials. To address these issues, we performed a reappraisal study of 150 patients with sensory neuropathy and a prospective and follow-up validation study of 352 new subjects with suspected sensory neuropathy. Small fibre neuropathy diagnostic criteria were based on deep clinical phenotyping, quantitative sensory testing (QST) and intraepidermal nerve fibre density (IENFD). Small fibre neuropathy was ruled out in 5 of 150 patients (3.3%) of the reappraisal study. Small fibre neuropathy was diagnosed at baseline of the validation study in 149 of 352 patients (42.4%) based on the combination between two clinical signs and abnormal QST and IENFD (69.1%), abnormal QST alone (5.4%), or abnormal IENFD alone (20.1%). Eight patients (5.4%) had abnormal QST and IENFD but no clinical signs. Further, 38 patients complained of sensory symptoms but showed no clinical signs. Of those, 34 (89.4%) had normal QST and IENFD, 4 (10.5%) had abnormal QST and normal IENFD, and none had abnormal IENFD alone. At 18-month follow-up, 19 of them (56%) reported the complete recovery of symptoms and showed normal clinical, QST and IENFD findings. None of those with one single abnormal test (QST or IENFD) developed clinical signs or showed abnormal findings on the other test. Conversely, all eight patients with abnormal QST and IENFD at baseline developed clinical signs at follow-up. The combination of clinical signs and abnormal QST and/or IENFD findings can more reliably lead to the diagnosis of small fibre neuropathy than the combination of abnormal QST and IENFD findings in the absence of clinical signs. Sensory symptoms alone should not be considered a reliable screening feature. Our findings demonstrate that the combined clinical, functional and structural approach to the diagnosis of small fibre neuropathy is reliable and relevant both for clinical practice and clinical trial design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Devigili
- Movement Disorders Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Rinaldo
- Movement Disorders Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Lombardi
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniele Cazzato
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Margherita Marchi
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Erika Salvi
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Eleopra
- Movement Disorders Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Indelicato E, Nachbauer W, Eigentler A, Rudzki D, Wanschitz J, Boesch S. Intraepidermal Nerve Fiber Density in Friedreich's Ataxia. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2019; 77:1137-1143. [PMID: 30358880 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/nly100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Friedreich's Ataxia (FRDA) is caused by a homozygous intronic GAA expansion in the FXN gene. FRDA affects primarily the peripheral nervous system (PNS) with cumulative evidence from postmortem studies and in vitro models suggesting a developmental component of its pathology. In the present study, we aimed at gaining further insight in the PNS involvement in FRDA by investigating small nerve fibers in vivo. For this purpose, we evaluated the intraepidermal nerve fiber (IENF) density in skin-biopsies of the lower leg and applied clinical assessments of small fiber function (painDETECT, quantitative sensory testing) in 17 FRDAs. Mean IENF density was significantly lower in FRDAs compared to controls (5.77 ± 4.68 vs 9.33 ± 1.41, p = 0.013). Clinically, cold detection threshold was decreased in FRDAs (FRDA = -3.47(-6.64; -3.14), controls = -1.71 (-3.43; -1.23), p = 0.001) while other measures of small fiber function such as warm and pain sensation thresholds did not differ from controls. Five patients had sensory complaints, but none was diagnosed with neuropathic pain at painDETECT. The degree of small fiber loss was markedly variable in our cohort and showed an inverse correlation with the GAA repeat length (R2 = 0.573, p = 0.001). Our findings support a genetically determined small fiber loss in FRDA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andreas Eigentler
- Neurology Department, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Dagmar Rudzki
- Neurology Department, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Julia Wanschitz
- Neurology Department, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sylvia Boesch
- Neurology Department, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
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Creigh PD, Mountain J, Sowden JE, Eichinger K, Ravina B, Larkindale J, Herrmann DN. Measuring peripheral nerve involvement in Friedreich's ataxia. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2019; 6:1718-1727. [PMID: 31414727 PMCID: PMC6764626 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.50865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Experimental therapies under development for Friedreich's Ataxia (FRDA) require validated biomarkers. In-vivo reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) of skin is a noninvasive way to quantify Meissner's corpuscle (MC) density and has emerged as a sensitive measure of sensory polyneuropathies. We conducted a prospective, cross-sectional study evaluating RCM of MCs and conventional peripheral nerve measures as candidate peripheral nerve markers in FRDA. METHODS Sixteen individuals with FRDA and 16 age- and gender-matched controls underwent RCM of MC density and morphology, skin biopsies for epidermal nerve fiber density (ENFD), nerve conduction studies (NCS), and quantitative sensory testing (QST) including touch, vibration, and cooling thresholds. RESULTS MC densities were measurable in all participants with FRDA, and were lower at digit V (hand), thenar eminence, and arch (foot) compared to controls. By contrast, sensory NCS showed floor effects and were obtainable in only 13% of FRDA participants. QST thresholds for touch, vibration, and cooling were higher at the hand and foot in FRDA than controls. Reductions in ENFDs were present in more severely affected individuals with FRDA (Friedreich's Ataxia Rating Scale (FARS) >60) compared to matched controls, although skin biopsies were not well tolerated in children. MC densities, ENFDs, and touch and vibration thresholds were associated with clinical disease severity (FARS and modified FARS) and duration since symptom onset. INTERPRETATION MC density, ENFD, and QST thresholds provide structural and physiologic markers of sensory involvement in FRDA. Longitudinal evaluation is needed to determine whether these measures can identify changes associated with disease progression or treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter D. Creigh
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Rochester School of Medicine and DentistryRochesterNew York
| | - Joan Mountain
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Rochester School of Medicine and DentistryRochesterNew York
| | - Janet E. Sowden
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Rochester School of Medicine and DentistryRochesterNew York
| | - Katy Eichinger
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Rochester School of Medicine and DentistryRochesterNew York
| | - Bernard Ravina
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Rochester School of Medicine and DentistryRochesterNew York
- Praxis Precision MedicinesCambridgeMassachusetts
| | - Jane Larkindale
- Friedreich’s Ataxia Research AllianceDowningtownPennsylvania
| | - David N. Herrmann
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Rochester School of Medicine and DentistryRochesterNew York
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Takazaki KAG, Rezende TJR, Martinez ARM, Gonzalez-Salazar C, Nucci A, Lopes-Cendes I, França MC. Sudomotor dysfunction is frequent and correlates with disability in Friedreich ataxia. Clin Neurophysiol 2018; 129:2290-2295. [PMID: 30227349 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2018.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate autonomic symptoms and function in Friedreich's Ataxia (FRDA). METHODS Twenty-eight FRDA patients and 24 controls underwent clinical/electrophysiological testing. We employed the Friedreich's Ataxia Rating Scale (FARS) and the Scales for Outcomes in Parkinson's Disease: Autonomic Questionnaire-SCOPA-AUT to estimate the intensity of ataxia and autonomic complaints, respectively. Cardiovagal tests and the quantitative sudomotor axonal reflex, Q-SART, were then assessed in both groups. RESULTS In the patient group, there were 11 men with mean age of 31.5 ± 11.1 years. Mean SCOPA-AUT score was 15.1 ± 8.1. Minimum RR interval at rest was shorter in the FRDA group (Median 831.3 × 724.0 ms, p < 0.001). The 30:15 ratio, Valsalva index, E:I ratio, low and high frequency power presented no differences between patients and controls (p > 0.05). Sweat responses were significantly reduced in patients for all sites tested (forearm 0.389 × 1.309 µL; proximal leg 0.406 × 1.107 µL; distal leg 0.491 × 1.232 µL; foot 0.265 × 0.708 µL; p value < 0.05). Sweat volumes correlated with FARS scores. CONCLUSIONS We found abnormal sudomotor but normal heart rate variability in FRDA. Small cholinergic post-ganglionic fibers are affected in the disease. SIGNIFICANCE Quantification of sudomotor function might be a biomarker for FRDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen A G Takazaki
- Departments of Neurology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Thiago Junqueira R Rezende
- Departments of Neurology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Alberto R M Martinez
- Departments of Neurology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Carelis Gonzalez-Salazar
- Departments of Neurology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Anamarli Nucci
- Departments of Neurology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Iscia Lopes-Cendes
- Medical Genetics, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcondes C França
- Departments of Neurology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil.
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Autonomic function testing in Friedreich's ataxia. J Neurol 2018; 265:2015-2022. [PMID: 29951702 PMCID: PMC6132658 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-018-8946-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Revised: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is an inherited movement disorder which manifests with progressive gait instability, sensory loss and cardiomyopathy. Peripheral neuropathy is an established feature of FRDA. At neuropathological examination, a depletion of large, myelinated axons is evident, but also unmyelinated fibers are affected which may result in a variety of sensory and autonomic signs and symptoms. Impaired temperature perception, vasomotor disturbances of lower extremities and a high prevalence of urinary symptoms have been documented in FRDA, but data from autonomic function testing in genetically confirmed cases are lacking. Methods Genetically confirmed FRDAs were recruited in an outpatient setting. In a screening visit, general and neurological examination, laboratory testing, ECG and echocardiography were performed. Autonomic functions were evaluated by means of systematic questionnaires (SCOPA-Aut, OHQ), skin sympathetic reflex and cardiovascular autonomic function testing (CAFT). For the latter, a comparison with matched healthy controls was performed. Results 20 patients were recruited and 13 underwent CAFT. Symptoms referred to multiple autonomic domains, particularly bladder function, thermoregulation and sweating were reported. SCOPA-Aut scores were significantly predicted by disease severity. At CAFT, FRDAs did not differ from controls except for increased heart rate at rest and during orthostatic challenge. Two patients had non-neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (14%). Skin sympathetic responses were pathologic in 3 out of 10 patients (of whom 2 aged > 50). Conclusions FRDA patients may experience several autonomic symptoms and overall their burden correlates with disease severity. Nonetheless, clinical testing shows no major involvement of sudomotor and cardiovascular autonomic function.
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Mollá B, Riveiro F, Bolinches-Amorós A, Muñoz-Lasso DC, Palau F, González-Cabo P. Two different pathogenic mechanisms, dying-back axonal neuropathy and pancreatic senescence, are present in the YG8R mouse model of Friedreich's ataxia. Dis Model Mech 2016; 9:647-57. [PMID: 27079523 PMCID: PMC4920149 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.024273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 04/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Frataxin (FXN) deficiency causes Friedreich’s ataxia (FRDA), a multisystem disorder with neurological and non-neurological symptoms. FRDA pathophysiology combines developmental and degenerative processes of dorsal root ganglia (DRG), sensory nerves, dorsal columns and other central nervous structures. A dying-back mechanism has been proposed to explain the peripheral neuropathy and neuropathology. In addition, affected individuals have non-neuronal symptoms such as diabetes mellitus or glucose intolerance. To go further in the understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of neuropathy and diabetes associated with the disease, we have investigated the humanized mouse YG8R model of FRDA. By biochemical and histopathological studies, we observed abnormal changes involving muscle spindles, dorsal root axons and DRG neurons, but normal findings in the posterior columns and brain, which agree with the existence of a dying-back process similar to that described in individuals with FRDA. In YG8R mice, we observed a large number of degenerated axons surrounded by a sheath exhibiting enlarged adaxonal compartments or by a thin disrupted myelin sheath. Thus, both axonal damage and defects in Schwann cells might underlie the nerve pathology. In the pancreas, we found a high proportion of senescent islets of Langerhans in YG8R mice, which decreases the β-cell number and islet mass to pathological levels, being unable to maintain normoglycemia. As a whole, these results confirm that the lack of FXN induces different pathogenic mechanisms in the nervous system and pancreas in the mouse model of FRDA: dying back of the sensory nerves, and pancreatic senescence. Summary: Frataxin deficiency induces different pathogenic mechanisms in the nervous system and pancreas in a YG8R mouse model of Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA). Thus, the degenerative process in FRDA is determined by the cell type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belén Mollá
- Program in Rare and Genetic Diseases and IBV/CSIC Associated Unit at CIPF, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe (CIPF), Valencia 46012, Spain CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Valencia 28029, Spain
| | - Fátima Riveiro
- Program in Rare and Genetic Diseases and IBV/CSIC Associated Unit at CIPF, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe (CIPF), Valencia 46012, Spain CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Valencia 28029, Spain
| | - Arantxa Bolinches-Amorós
- Program in Rare and Genetic Diseases and IBV/CSIC Associated Unit at CIPF, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe (CIPF), Valencia 46012, Spain Cell Therapy Program, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe (CIPF), Valencia 46012, Spain
| | - Diana C Muñoz-Lasso
- Program in Rare and Genetic Diseases and IBV/CSIC Associated Unit at CIPF, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe (CIPF), Valencia 46012, Spain CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Valencia 28029, Spain
| | - Francesc Palau
- Program in Rare and Genetic Diseases and IBV/CSIC Associated Unit at CIPF, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe (CIPF), Valencia 46012, Spain CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Valencia 28029, Spain Department of Genetic and Molecular Medicine, Institut de Recerca Pediàtrica Hospital San Joan de Déu, Barcelona 08950, Spain Department of Pediatrics, University of Barcelona School of Medicine, Barcelona 08036, Spain
| | - Pilar González-Cabo
- Program in Rare and Genetic Diseases and IBV/CSIC Associated Unit at CIPF, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe (CIPF), Valencia 46012, Spain CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Valencia 28029, Spain Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Valencia, Valencia 46010, Spain
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20
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Turkmenoglu FP, Kasirga UB, Celik HH. Ultra-structural hair alterations in Friedreich's ataxia: A scanning electron microscopic investigation. Microsc Res Tech 2015; 78:731-6. [PMID: 26138268 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.22531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Revised: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) is an autosomal recessive inherited disorder involving progressive damage to the central and peripheral nervous systems and cardiomyopathy. FRDA is caused by the silencing of the FXN gene and reduced levels of the encoded protein, frataxin. Frataxin is a mitochondrial protein that functions primarily in iron-sulfur cluster synthesis. Skin disorders including hair abnormalities have previously been reported in patients with mitochondrial disorders. However, to our knowledge, ultra-structural hair alterations in FRDA were not demonstrated. The purpose of this study was to determine ultra-structural alterations in the hairs of FRDA patients as well as carriers. Hair specimen from four patients, who are in different stages of the disease, and two carriers were examined by scanning electron microscope. Thin and weak hair follicles with absence of homogeneities on the cuticular surface, local damages of the cuticular layer, cuticular fractures were detected in both carriers and patients, but these alterations were much more prominent in the hair follicles of patients. In addition, erosions on the surface of the cuticle and local deep cavities just under the cuticular level were observed only in patients. Indistinct cuticular pattern, pores on the cuticular surface, and presence of concavities on the hair follicle were also detected in patients in later stages of the disease. According to our results, progression of the disease increased the alterations on hair structure. We suggest that ultra-structural alterations observed in hair samples might be due to oxidative stress caused by deficient frataxin expression in mitochondria.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Pinar Turkmenoglu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - U Baran Kasirga
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Maltepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - H Hamdi Celik
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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Merkies ISJ, Faber CG, Lauria G. Advances in diagnostics and outcome measures in peripheral neuropathies. Neurosci Lett 2015; 596:3-13. [PMID: 25703220 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2015.02.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2014] [Revised: 02/05/2015] [Accepted: 02/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral neuropathies are a group of acquired and hereditary disorders presenting with different distribution and nerve fiber class involvement. The overall prevalence is 2.4%, increasing to 8% in the elderly population. However, the frequency may vary depending on the underlying pathogenesis and association with systemic diseases. Distal symmetric polyneuropathy is the most common form, though multiple mononeuropathies, non-length dependent neuropathy and small fiber neuropathy can occur and may require specific diagnostic tools. The use of uniform outcome measures in peripheral neuropathies is important to improve the quality of randomized controlled trials, enabling comparison between studies. Recent developments in defining the optimal set of outcome measures in inflammatory neuropathies may serve as an example for other conditions. Diagnostic and outcome measure advances in peripheral neuropathies will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingemar S J Merkies
- Department of Neurology, Spaarne Hospital, Hoofddorp, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Catharina G Faber
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- 3rd Neurology Unit, IRCCS Foundation "Carlo Besta" Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy.
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Provitera V, Nolano M, Stancanelli A, Caporaso G, Vitale DF, Santoro L. Intraepidermal nerve fiber analysis using immunofluorescence with and without confocal microscopy. Muscle Nerve 2015; 51:501-4. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.24338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Revised: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 07/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Provitera
- “S. Maugeri” Foundation IRCCS, Center of Telese Terme, Via Bagni Vecchi; 1-82037 Telese Terme Benevento Italy
| | - Maria Nolano
- “S. Maugeri” Foundation IRCCS, Center of Telese Terme, Via Bagni Vecchi; 1-82037 Telese Terme Benevento Italy
| | - Annamaria Stancanelli
- “S. Maugeri” Foundation IRCCS, Center of Telese Terme, Via Bagni Vecchi; 1-82037 Telese Terme Benevento Italy
| | - Giuseppe Caporaso
- “S. Maugeri” Foundation IRCCS, Center of Telese Terme, Via Bagni Vecchi; 1-82037 Telese Terme Benevento Italy
| | - Dino F. Vitale
- “S. Maugeri” Foundation IRCCS, Center of Telese Terme, Via Bagni Vecchi; 1-82037 Telese Terme Benevento Italy
| | - Lucio Santoro
- Department of Neurosciences; Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University “Federico II” of Naples; Naples Italy
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Nolano M, Manganelli F, Provitera V, Pisciotta C, Stancanelli A, Caporaso G, Iodice R, Shy ME, Santoro L. Small nerve fiber involvement in CMT1A. Neurology 2014; 84:407-14. [PMID: 25540311 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000001188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the involvement of small nerve fibers in Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 1A (CMT1A). METHODS We used indirect immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy on punch biopsies from glabrous (fingertip) and hairy (thigh and leg) skin of 20 unrelated patients with CMT1A to quantify somatic and autonomic nerve fibers. In particular, we quantified epidermal nerve fibers (ENF), Meissner corpuscles (MC), intrapapillary myelinated endings (IME), and sudomotor nerves. We correlated morphologic data with findings from quantitative sensory testing, sudomotor output, sympathetic skin response, and cardiovascular reflexes. A control population of healthy age- and sex-matched controls was included with a matching ratio of 1:2. RESULTS We found a length-dependent loss of ENFs that worsened with aging. We also observed a loss of MCs, IMEs, and sudomotor nerves. The loss of ENF at distal leg correlated with the increase in heat-pain thresholds (p < 0.05) and with tactile thresholds (p < 0.05). Sudomotor nerve fiber loss correlated with ENF density (p < 0.05) and sweating output (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated through morphologic, physical, and psychophysical testing that small somatic and autonomic fibers are abnormal and cause symptoms in patients with CMT1A. Awareness of such symptoms by the clinician could lead to better treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Nolano
- From the Neurology Division (M.N., V.P., A.S., G.C.), "Salvatore Maugeri" Foundation, Institute of Telese Terme; the Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences (F.M., C.P., R.I., L.S.), University Federico II of Naples, Italy; and the Department of Neurology (M.E.S.), University of Iowa, Iowa City.
| | - Fiore Manganelli
- From the Neurology Division (M.N., V.P., A.S., G.C.), "Salvatore Maugeri" Foundation, Institute of Telese Terme; the Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences (F.M., C.P., R.I., L.S.), University Federico II of Naples, Italy; and the Department of Neurology (M.E.S.), University of Iowa, Iowa City
| | - Vincenzo Provitera
- From the Neurology Division (M.N., V.P., A.S., G.C.), "Salvatore Maugeri" Foundation, Institute of Telese Terme; the Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences (F.M., C.P., R.I., L.S.), University Federico II of Naples, Italy; and the Department of Neurology (M.E.S.), University of Iowa, Iowa City
| | - Chiara Pisciotta
- From the Neurology Division (M.N., V.P., A.S., G.C.), "Salvatore Maugeri" Foundation, Institute of Telese Terme; the Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences (F.M., C.P., R.I., L.S.), University Federico II of Naples, Italy; and the Department of Neurology (M.E.S.), University of Iowa, Iowa City
| | - Annamaria Stancanelli
- From the Neurology Division (M.N., V.P., A.S., G.C.), "Salvatore Maugeri" Foundation, Institute of Telese Terme; the Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences (F.M., C.P., R.I., L.S.), University Federico II of Naples, Italy; and the Department of Neurology (M.E.S.), University of Iowa, Iowa City
| | - Giuseppe Caporaso
- From the Neurology Division (M.N., V.P., A.S., G.C.), "Salvatore Maugeri" Foundation, Institute of Telese Terme; the Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences (F.M., C.P., R.I., L.S.), University Federico II of Naples, Italy; and the Department of Neurology (M.E.S.), University of Iowa, Iowa City
| | - Rosa Iodice
- From the Neurology Division (M.N., V.P., A.S., G.C.), "Salvatore Maugeri" Foundation, Institute of Telese Terme; the Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences (F.M., C.P., R.I., L.S.), University Federico II of Naples, Italy; and the Department of Neurology (M.E.S.), University of Iowa, Iowa City
| | - Michael E Shy
- From the Neurology Division (M.N., V.P., A.S., G.C.), "Salvatore Maugeri" Foundation, Institute of Telese Terme; the Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences (F.M., C.P., R.I., L.S.), University Federico II of Naples, Italy; and the Department of Neurology (M.E.S.), University of Iowa, Iowa City
| | - Lucio Santoro
- From the Neurology Division (M.N., V.P., A.S., G.C.), "Salvatore Maugeri" Foundation, Institute of Telese Terme; the Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences (F.M., C.P., R.I., L.S.), University Federico II of Naples, Italy; and the Department of Neurology (M.E.S.), University of Iowa, Iowa City
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Lauria G, Ziegler D, Malik R, Merkies ISJ, Waxman SG, Faber CG. The role of sodium channels in painful diabetic and idiopathic neuropathy. Curr Diab Rep 2014; 14:538. [PMID: 25142720 DOI: 10.1007/s11892-014-0538-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Painful neuropathies are frequently encountered in clinical practice as an early or late complication of several systemic disorders. Among them, diabetes is one of the most important due to its epidemiology and the relevance for regulatory agencies in the assessment of efficacy of new analgesics. However, the presentation and course of painful neuropathies, as well as the response to available drugs, are highly variable and unpredictable, posing significant challenges in the management of patients. Experimental and clinical studies have suggested that polymorphisms and mutations in pain-related genes are involved in the facilitation or inhibition of nociception, and might modulate neuropathic pain and the response to analgesics in patients. Voltage-gated sodium channel genes are among the most relevant, due to the key role of these membrane proteins in the physiology of nociception and their involvement in the pathogenesis of idiopathic painful small fiber neuropathies. These compelling features make sodium channel candidate targets for a novel approach to painful diabetic and idiopathic neuropathies, which will hopefully allow a new classification of patients and more effective targeted treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Lauria
- Neuroalgology and Headache Unit, IRCCS Foundation "Carlo Besta" Neurological Institute, Via Celoria, 11, 20133, Milan, Italy,
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25
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Hirai T, Miyagawa S, Matsui K, Kurita A. [Small fiber neuropathy in a patient with complete Heerfordt syndrome manifesting as refractory facial pain]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 2014; 54:585-8. [PMID: 25087562 DOI: 10.5692/clinicalneurol.54.585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
We report a case of complete Heerfordt syndrome accompanied by the involvement of small fiber neuropathy (SFN) manifesting as refracory facial pain. A 30-year-old man presented with pyrexia, a 2-week history of facial burning pain, and difficulty of mastication. After admission to our hospital, neurological examinations showed bilateral facial pain, trigeminal motor palsy, left facial nerve palsy, bilateral sensory neural deafness, uveitis and swelling of the parotid gland. Other examinations revealed bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy, high serum titer of angiotensin coenzyme, and no response in a tuberculin-tested, non-caseating epithelioid granuloma from lip biopsy, leading to the diagnosis of complete Heerfordt syndrome. Mandibular skin biopsy with immunostaining for PGP 9.5 showed SFN. High-dose corticosteroids proved somewhat effective against SFN as facial pain, but reducing the corticosteroid dose proved difficult, as symptoms were refractory to other immunosuppressants and pain-control drugs such as anti-epileptics and anti-depressants. The patient died of acute pancreatitis 3 years after disease onset. Autopsy showed no granuloma in hilar lymph node, trigeminal nerve, cranial base, nerve root, and muscle. SFN in this case probably represent a cause of refractory facial pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiaki Hirai
- Department of Neurology, The Jikei University Kashiwa Hospital
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26
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Letter to the Editor. Pain 2014; 155:1177-1178. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2014.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2014] [Revised: 03/12/2014] [Accepted: 03/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Myers MI, Peltier AC. Uses of skin biopsy for sensory and autonomic nerve assessment. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2013; 13:323. [PMID: 23250768 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-012-0323-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Skin biopsy is a valuable diagnostic tool for small-fiber-predominant neuropathy by the quantification of intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD). It has the unique advantage of being a minimally invasive procedure with the potential for longitudinal evaluation of both sensory and autonomic fibers. Unmyelinated small fibers are not otherwise quantified objectively with such a level of sensitivity as has been reported with IENFD. Recent advances include an expansion of the skin punch biopsy technique to evaluate larger myelinated fibers and mechanoreceptors, and recent work has also focused on additional methods of quantifying dermal fibers and densely innervated autonomic structures. This review discusses current work using skin biopsy for the pathologic analysis of peripheral nerve fibers in neuropathy of various causes as well as its use in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Iliza Myers
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, A-0118 Medical Center North, 1161 21st Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
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Myers MI, Peltier AC, Li J. Evaluating dermal myelinated nerve fibers in skin biopsy. Muscle Nerve 2013; 47:1-11. [PMID: 23192899 PMCID: PMC3528842 DOI: 10.1002/mus.23510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Although there has been extensive research on small, unmyelinated fibers in the skin, little research has investigated dermal myelinated fibers in comparison. Glabrous, nonhairy skin contains mechanoreceptors that afford a vantage point for observation of myelinated fibers that have previously been seen only with invasively obtained nerve biopsies. This review discusses current morphometric and molecular expression data of normative and pathogenic glabrous skin obtained by various processing and analysis methods for cutaneous myelinated fibers. Recent publications have shed light on the role of glabrous skin biopsy in identifying signs of peripheral neuropathy and as a potential biomarker of distal myelin and mechanoreceptor integrity. The clinical relevance of a better understanding of the role of dermal myelinated nerve terminations in peripheral neuropathy will be addressed in light of recent publications in the growing field of skin biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Iliza Myers
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Jun Li
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Center for Molecular Neuroscience, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Center for Human Genetics Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
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Mellgren SI, Nolano M, Sommer C. The cutaneous nerve biopsy: technical aspects, indications, and contribution. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2013; 115:171-188. [PMID: 23931780 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-52902-2.00010-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Skin biopsy with a 3mm disposable circular punch is easy to perform and allows, after proper processing, the visualization of epidermal, dermal, and sweat gland nerve fibers. A technique of sampling the epidermis alone by applying a suction capsule, the "blister" technique, has also been developed. It is most common to stain immunohistochemically for the pan-axonal marker protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5), an ubiquitin C-terminal hydroxylase. The sections are then observed and analyzed with bright-field microscopy or with indirect immunofluorescence with or without confocal microscopy. Most studies report quantification of intraepidermal nerve fiber density displayed in bright-field microscopy. Normative values have been established, particularly from the distal part of the leg, 10cm above the external malleolus. In diabetes mellitus early degeneration of intraepidermal nerve fibers is induced and there is slower regeneration even when there is no evidence of neuropathy. Skin biopsy is of particular value in the diagnosis of small fiber neuropathy when nerve conduction studies are normal. It may also be repeated in order to study the progressive nature of the disease and also has the potential of studying regeneration of nerve fibers and thus the effects of treatment. Inflammatory demyelinating neuropathies may also involve loss of small-diameter nerve fibers and IgM deposits in dermal myelinated nerve fibers in anti-MAG neuropathy. In some cases the presence of vasculitis in skin may indicate a nonsystemic vasculitic neuropathy and in HIV neuropathy intraepidermal nerve fiber density is reduced in a length-dependent manner. In several hereditary neuropathies intraepidermal nerve fiber density may be reduced but other abnormalities can also be demonstrated in dermal myelinated fibers. Some small swellings and varicosities may be present in the distal leg skin biopsy of healthy individuals but large axonal swellings are considered as evidence of a pathological process affecting the normal structure of nerves. The indirect immunofluorescence technique with confocal microscopy provides the opportunity to study the complex structure of sensory receptors and cutaneous myelinated fibers and the innervation of sweat glands, arrector pilorum muscles, and vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svein Ivar Mellgren
- Department of Clinical Medicine - Neurology, University of Tromsø and University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway.
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30
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Manganelli F, Pisciotta C, Provitera V, Taioli F, Iodice R, Topa A, Fabrizi GM, Nolano M, Santoro L. Autonomic nervous system involvement in a new CMT2B family. J Peripher Nerv Syst 2012; 17:361-4. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1529-8027.2012.00415.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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31
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Manganelli F, Pisciotta C, Nolano M, Capponi S, Geroldi A, Topa A, Bellone E, Suls A, Mandich P, Santoro L. A novel autosomal dominant GDAP1 mutation in an Italian CMT2 family. J Peripher Nerv Syst 2012; 17:351-5. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1529-8027.2012.00414.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Hoeijmakers JG, Faber CG, Lauria G, Merkies IS, Waxman SG. Small-fibre neuropathies—advances in diagnosis, pathophysiology and management. Nat Rev Neurol 2012; 8:369-79. [DOI: 10.1038/nrneurol.2012.97] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Pandolfo
- Brussels Free University and Erasme Hospital, Brussels, Belgium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan D Fratkin
- Departments of Pathology (Neuropathology), University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216-4505, USA.
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Kennedy WR, Selim MM, Brink TS, Hodges JS, Wendelschafer-Crabb G, Foster SXYL, Nolano M, Provitera V, Simone DA. A new device to quantify tactile sensation in neuropathy. Neurology 2011; 76:1642-9. [PMID: 21555731 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0b013e318219fadd] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To devise a rapid, sensitive method to quantify tactile threshold of finger pads for early detection and staging of peripheral neuropathy and for use in clinical trials. METHODS Subjects were 166 healthy controls and 103 patients with, or at risk for, peripheral neuropathy. Subjects were screened by questionnaire. The test device, the Bumps, is a checkerboard-like smooth surface with 12 squares; each square encloses 5 colored circles. The subject explores the circles of each square with the index finger pad to locate the one circle containing a small bump. Bumps in different squares have different heights. Detection threshold is defined as the smallest bump height detected. In some subjects, a 3-mm skin biopsy from the tested finger pad was taken to compare density of Meissner corpuscles (MCs) to bump detection thresholds. RESULTS The mean (±SEM) bump detection threshold for control subjects was 3.3 ± 0.10 μm. Threshold and test time were age related, older subjects having slightly higher thresholds and using more time. Mean detection threshold of patients with neuropathy (6.2 ± 0.35 μm) differed from controls (p < 0.001). A proposed threshold for identifying impaired sensation had a sensitivity of 71% and specificity of 74%. Detection threshold was higher when MC density was decreased. CONCLUSIONS These preliminary studies suggest that the Bumps test is a rapid, sensitive, inexpensive method to quantify tactile sensation of finger pads. It has potential for early diagnosis of tactile deficiency in subjects suspected of having neuropathy, for staging degree of tactile deficit, and for monitoring change over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- W R Kennedy
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA.
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36
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Synofzik M, Godau J, Lindig T, Schöls L, Berg D. Restless legs and substantia nigra hypoechogenicity are common features in Friedreich's ataxia. THE CEREBELLUM 2011; 10:9-13. [PMID: 20865356 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-010-0215-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Friedreich's ataxia (FA) is a multisystemic degenerative disease, but the prevalence of restless legs syndrome (RLS) is unknown. FA patients might be particularly susceptible to develop RLS as FA presents with features commonly associated with RLS, e.g. multisystemic network dysfunction, peripheral neuropathy and disturbances in subcellular brain iron homeostasis. In this work, we assessed the following: (1) the prevalence of RLS; (2) the prevalence of sonographic hypoechogenicity of the substantia nigra (SN), which is known to be associated with idiopathic RLS; and (3) the relation between both in 28 FA patients. Thirty-two percent of the patients suffered from RLS, thus clearly exceeding the prevalence rate in the general population. SN hypoechogenicity was more frequent in FA patients (61%) compared to healthy controls (7%) and was significantly associated with RLS. However, as SN echogenicity also correlated inversely with disease severity, it seems to be related not only to RLS, but also to the neurodegenerative process in FA itself. The high prevalence of RLS in FA patients warrants specific assessment by neurologists involved in the care of FA patients as treatments are readily available. Similar to patients with idiopathic RLS, reduced SN echogenicity is a frequent finding in FA, possibly indicating regional changes in subcellular brain iron regulation in FA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthis Synofzik
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, Tübingen, Germany
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37
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Lauria G, Hsieh ST, Johansson O, Kennedy WR, Leger JM, Mellgren SI, Nolano M, Merkies ISJ, Polydefkis M, Smith AG, Sommer C, Valls-Solé J. European Federation of Neurological Societies/Peripheral Nerve Society Guideline on the use of skin biopsy in the diagnosis of small fiber neuropathy. Report of a joint task force of the European Federation of Neurological Societies and the Peripheral Nerve Society. Eur J Neurol 2011; 17:903-12, e44-9. [PMID: 20642627 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-1331.2010.03023.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 538] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Revision of the guidelines on the use of skin biopsy in the diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy, published in 2005, has become appropriate owing to publication of more relevant articles. Most of the new studies focused on small fiber neuropathy (SFN), a subtype of neuropathy for which the diagnosis was first developed through skin biopsy examination. This revision focuses on the use of this technique to diagnose SFN. METHODS Task force members searched the Medline database from 2005, the year of the publication of the first EFNS guideline, to June 30th, 2009. All pertinent articles were rated according to the EFNS and PNS guidance. After a consensus meeting, the task force members created a manuscript that was subsequently revised by two experts (JML and JVS) in the field of peripheral neuropathy and clinical neurophysiology, who were not previously involved in the use of skin biopsy. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Distal leg skin biopsy with quantification of the linear density of intraepidermal nerve fibers (IENF), using generally agreed upon counting rules, is a reliable and efficient technique to assess the diagnosis of SFN (Recommendation Level A). Normative reference values are available for bright-field immunohistochemistry (Recommendation Level A) but not yet for confocal immunofluorescence or the blister technique. The morphometric analysis of IENF density, either performed with bright-field or immunofluorescence microscopy, should always refer to normative values matched for age (Recommendation Level A). Newly established laboratories should undergo adequate training in a well-established skin biopsy laboratory and provide their own stratified for age and gender normative values, intra- and interobserver reliability, and interlaboratory agreement. Quality control of the procedure at all levels is mandatory (Good Practice Point). Procedures to quantify subepidermal nerve fibers and autonomic innervated structures, including erector pili muscles, and skin vessels, are under development but need to be confirmed by further studies. Sweat gland innervation can be examined using an unbiased stereologic technique recently proposed (Recommendation Level B). A reduced IENF density is associated with the risk of developing neuropathic pain (Recommendation Level B), but it does not correlate with its intensity. Serial skin biopsies might be useful for detecting early changes of IENF density, which predict the progression of neuropathy, and to assess degeneration and regeneration of IENF (Recommendation Level C). However, further studies are warranted to confirm its potential usefulness as an outcome measure in clinical practice and research. Skin biopsy has not so far been useful for identifying the etiology of SFN. Finally, we emphasize that 3-mm skin biopsy at the ankle is a safe procedure based on the experience of 10 laboratories reporting absence of serious side effects in approximately 35,000 biopsies and a mere 0.19% incidence of non-serious side effects in about 15 years of practice (Good Practice Point).
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Affiliation(s)
- G Lauria
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Foundation, 'Carlo Besta' Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy.
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38
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Lauria G, Bakkers M, Schmitz C, Lombardi R, Penza P, Devigili G, Smith AG, Hsieh ST, Mellgren SI, Umapathi T, Ziegler D, Faber CG, Merkies ISJ. Intraepidermal nerve fiber density at the distal leg: a worldwide normative reference study. J Peripher Nerv Syst 2011; 15:202-7. [PMID: 21040142 DOI: 10.1111/j.1529-8027.2010.00271.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 338] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The diagnostic reliability of skin biopsy in small fiber neuropathy depends on the availability of normative reference values. We performed a multicenter study to assess the normative values of intraepidermal nerve fiber (IENF) density at distal leg stratified by age deciles. Eight skin biopsy laboratories from Europe, USA, and Asia submitted eligible data. Inclusion criteria of raw data were healthy subjects 18 years or older; known age and gender; 3-mm skin biopsy performed 10-cm above the lateral malleolus; bright-field immunohistochemistry protocol, and quantification of linear IENF density in three 50-µm sections according to published guidelines. Data on height and weight were recorded, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated in subjects with both available data. Normative IENF density reference values were calculated through quantile regression analysis; influence of height, weight, or BMI was determined by regression analyses. IENF densities from 550 participants (285 women, 265 men) were pooled. We found a significant age-dependent decrease of IENF density in both genders (women p < 0.001; men p = 0.002). Height, weight, or BMI did not influence the calculated 5th percentile IENF normative densities in both genders. Our study provides IENF density normative reference values at the distal leg to be used in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Lauria
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Foundation Carlo Besta Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy.
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Morral JA, Davis AN, Qian J, Gelman BB, Koeppen AH. Pathology and pathogenesis of sensory neuropathy in Friedreich's ataxia. Acta Neuropathol 2010; 120:97-108. [PMID: 20339857 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-010-0675-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2009] [Revised: 03/17/2010] [Accepted: 03/17/2010] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) causes a complex neuropathological phenotype with characteristic lesions of dorsal root ganglia (DRG); dorsal spinal roots; dorsal nuclei of Clarke; spinocerebellar and corticospinal tracts; dentate nuclei; and sensory nerves. This report presents a systematic morphological analysis of sural nerves obtained by autopsy of six patients with genetically confirmed FRDA. The outstanding lesion consisted of lack of myelinated fibers whereas axons were present in normal numbers. On cross-sections, only 11% of all class III-beta-tubulin-positive axons were myelinated in FRDA, contrasting with 36% in normal control nerves. Despite their paucity, thin myelinated fibers assembled compact sheaths containing the peripheral myelin proteins PMP-22, P(0), and myelin basic protein. The nerves displayed major modifications in Schwann cells that were apparent by laminin 2 and S100alpha immunocytochemistry. Few S100alpha-immunoreactive cells remained detectable whereas laminin 2 reaction product was abundant. The normal honeycomb-like distribution of laminin 2 around myelinated fibers was replaced by confluent regions of reaction product that enveloped clusters of closely apposed thin axons. Electron microscopy not only confirmed the lack of myelin but also showed abnormal Schwann cells and axons. Ferritin localized to normal Schwann cell cytoplasm. In the sensory nerves of patients with FRDA, the distribution of this protein strongly resembled laminin 2, but there was no net increase of the total ferritin-reactive area. Ferroportin reaction product occurred in all axons of sural nerves in FRDA, which was at variance with dorsal spinal roots. In the pathogenesis of sensory neuropathy in FRDA, two mechanisms are likely: hypomyelination due to faulty interaction between axons and Schwann cells; and slow axonal degeneration. Neurons of DRG, satellite cells, Schwann cells, and axons of sensory nerves and dorsal spinal roots derive from the neural crest, and hypomyelination in FRDA may be attributed to defects of regulation or migration of shared precursor cells. Sural nerves in FRDA showed no convincing change in ferritin and ferroportin, militating against local iron dysmetabolism. The result stands out in contrast to the previously reported changes in dorsal spinal roots of patients with FRDA.
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European Federation of Neurological Societies/Peripheral Nerve Society Guideline on the use of skin biopsy in the diagnosis of small fiber neuropathy. Report of a joint task force of the European Federation of Neurological Societies and the Peripheral Ner. J Peripher Nerv Syst 2010; 15:79-92. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1529-8027.2010.00269.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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41
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Nolano M, Provitera V, Santoro L. Internodal length variability of dermal myelinated fibres. Brain 2010; 133:e142; author reply e143. [PMID: 20157010 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awq004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Lauria G, Lombardi R, Camozzi F, Devigili G. Skin biopsy for the diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy. Histopathology 2008; 54:273-85. [PMID: 18637969 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2559.2008.03096.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Skin biopsy has become an accepted tool for investigating small nerve fibres, which are invisible to conventional neurophysiological tests even though they are affected early on in peripheral neuropathies of varying aetiology. Morphometric analysis of epidermal and dermal nerves has proved to be reliable, reproducible and unaffected by the severity of neuropathy, making skin biopsy useful for diagnosing small fibre neuropathy (SFN) in clinical practice. The possibility of obtaining skin biopsy specimens from different sites of the body, to repeat them within the area of the same sensory nerve, to distinguish between somatic and autonomic nerves and to investigate the expression of nerve-related proteins has widened the potential applications of this technique to clinical research. Skin biopsy performed using a minimally invasive disposable punch is a safe and painless procedure. Using specific antibodies with bright-field immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence technique, it is possible to investigate unmyelinated fibres innervating the epidermis of hairy and glabrous skin, large myelinated fibres supplying specialized corpuscles in glabrous skin, and autonomic fibres innervating sweat glands, blood vessels and arrector pilorum muscles. This review discusses the features of skin innervation in hairy and glabrous skin, the functional properties of skin nerve fibres and their changes in peripheral neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Lauria
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, National Neurological Institute Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy.
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Rance G, Fava R, Baldock H, Chong A, Barker E, Corben L, Delatycki MB. Speech perception ability in individuals with Friedreich ataxia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 131:2002-12. [PMID: 18515321 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awn104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate auditory pathway function and speech perception ability in individuals with Friedreich ataxia (FRDA). Ten subjects confirmed by genetic testing as being homozygous for a GAA expansion in intron 1 of the FXN gene were included. While each of the subjects demonstrated normal, or near normal sound detection, 3 of the 10 showed electrophysiological evidence of auditory pathway disorder [presenting with the auditory neuropathy/dyssynchrony (AN/AD) result pattern], and 9 of the 10 showed abnormal speech understanding when tested with levels of background noise typical of everyday listening conditions. Information transmission analyses of the speech perception findings for the three FRDA subjects with AN/AD type hearing loss when compared with those of a cohort of individuals with peripheral [sensorineural (SN)] hearing loss, showed a distinct pattern of perceptual disruption. Where the listeners with SN loss confused sounds on the basis of frequency (pitch) differences, the FRDA subjects with AN/AD made errors that reflected an inability to perceive temporal (timing) cues in the speech sounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary Rance
- Department of Otolaryngology, The University of Melbourne, 172 Victoria Parade, East Melbourne 3002, Australia.
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Manganelli F, Iodice V, Provitera V, Pisciotta C, Nolano M, Perretti A, Santoro L. Small-fiber involvement in spinobulbar muscular atrophy (Kennedy's disease). Muscle Nerve 2008; 36:816-20. [PMID: 17691102 DOI: 10.1002/mus.20872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
We assessed the involvement of cutaneous innervation in two subjects with a molecularly confirmed diagnosis of spinobulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) using antidromic nerve conduction studies, quantitative sensory testing, and sweat tests, as well as immunohistochemical techniques and confocal microscopy of glabrous and hairy skin biopsy. Both patients showed a marked reduction in amplitude of sensory action potentials and moderate or severe abnormalities of tactile thresholds and mechanical pain perception. A severe reduction of sweat drops on the Silastic imprint test and a widespread loss of small myelinated and unmyelinated fibers in hairy skin were also observed. Fiber loss involved either somatic or autonomic fibers and did not show any distal-proximal gradient. These results, together with loss of Meissner corpuscles and their large myelinated afferent fibers in glabrous skin, confirmed the extensive involvement of sensory neurons of large and small size and revealed an autonomic skin denervation in SBMA.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Autonomic Nervous System Diseases/etiology
- Autonomic Nervous System Diseases/physiopathology
- Autonomic Pathways/pathology
- Autonomic Pathways/physiopathology
- Biopsy
- Cell Size
- Electrodiagnosis/instrumentation
- Electrodiagnosis/methods
- Ganglia, Spinal/pathology
- Ganglia, Spinal/physiopathology
- Humans
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Muscular Atrophy, Spinal/diagnosis
- Muscular Atrophy, Spinal/pathology
- Muscular Atrophy, Spinal/physiopathology
- Nerve Fibers, Myelinated/pathology
- Nerve Fibers, Unmyelinated/pathology
- Neural Conduction
- Neurons, Afferent/pathology
- Predictive Value of Tests
- Sensory Receptor Cells/pathology
- Sensory Receptor Cells/physiopathology
- Sensory Thresholds
- Skin/innervation
- Skin/pathology
- Skin/physiopathology
- Somatosensory Disorders/etiology
- Somatosensory Disorders/physiopathology
- Sweat Gland Diseases/etiology
- Sweat Gland Diseases/physiopathology
- Sweat Glands/innervation
- Sweat Glands/physiopathology
- Sympathetic Fibers, Postganglionic/pathology
- Sympathetic Fibers, Postganglionic/physiopathology
- Wallerian Degeneration/etiology
- Wallerian Degeneration/physiopathology
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiore Manganelli
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University Federico II of Naples, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
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Recent developments in the management of peripheral neuropathy using skin biopsy. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2007; 163:1266-70. [DOI: 10.1016/s0035-3787(07)78418-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Provitera V, Nolano M, Pagano A, Caporaso G, Stancanelli A, Santoro L. Myelinated nerve endings in human skin. Muscle Nerve 2007; 35:767-75. [PMID: 17405136 DOI: 10.1002/mus.20771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
We used immunohistochemical techniques and confocal microscopy to study the morphometry of myelinated nerve endings in glabrous and hairy skin. A total of 30 healthy volunteers took part in this study designed to assess the possibility of obtaining reliable information on myelinated fibers using samples of hairy skin and to determine whether differences exist between myelinated terminations from different sites. We obtained consistent information on cutaneous myelinated terminations using hairy as well as glabrous skin samples. Myelinated endings from hairy and glabrous skin differ in density and distribution. However, from a comparison of our findings with data from nerve biopsy studies, we conclude that all cutaneous myelinated terminations are thinner terminal branches of large myelinated A beta fibers, whereas cutaneous terminations of small myelinated A delta fibers lose their myelin before entering the dermis and become indistinguishable from C-fiber terminations. The classic criteria, based on fiber size, used to distinguish myelinated fiber subgroups in sensory nerves are therefore not suitable for identifying myelinated terminations in the skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Provitera
- Neurology Division, Salvatore Maugeri Foundation IRCCS, Via Bagni Vecchi, 1 Telese Terme, BN 82037, Italy.
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Abstract
Skin biopsy has been widely used in recent years for the investigation of small-calibre sensory nerves, including somatic unmyelinated intraepidermal nerve fibres, dermal myelinated nerve fibres, and autonomic nerve fibres in peripheral neuropathies, with different techniques for tissue processing and nerve fibre assessment. Here, we review the techniques for skin biopsy, the processing and assessment of the biopsy sample, their possible uses in different types of peripheral neuropathy, and their use in the follow-up of patients and in clinical trials. We also review the association between morphological measures of skin innervation and function and the limits of this method in the aetiological classification of peripheral neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Sommer
- Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Germany.
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Dabby R, Vaknine H, Gilad R, Djaldetti R, Sadeh M. Evaluation of cutaneous autonomic innervation in idiopathic sensory small-fiber neuropathy. J Peripher Nerv Syst 2007; 12:98-101. [PMID: 17565534 DOI: 10.1111/j.1529-8027.2007.00128.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
To evaluate the loss of autonomic nerve fibers in patients with clinical pure small-fiber sensory neuropathy, we performed skin punch biopsies in 17 and 15 age- and sex-matched controls. Biopsies were taken 10 cm above the lateral malleolus, and 5-mum sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and the panaxonal marker protein gene product (PGP) 9.5. Positively stained fibers, represented as dots, innervating the erector pili muscles, arterioles, and sweat glands (SG) were counted. The ratios between the number of nerve fibers and nuclei of each structure were calculated. The autonomic innervation was significantly reduced in the patients' group compared with controls in all the examined autonomic-innervated structures: SG (0.27 +/- 0.15 vs. 0.66 +/- 0.37, p = 0.001), arterioles (0.38 +/- 0.32 vs. 0.86 +/- 0.45, p=0.002), and the erector pili muscle (0.58 +/- 0.27 vs. 1.23 +/- 0.87, p = 0.036). Our results suggest that autonomic involvement occurs in patients with sensory small-fiber neuropathy and that punch skin biopsy using thin sections is a simple and convenient method to detect these dermal autonomic small-fiber abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ron Dabby
- Department of Neurology, Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.
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