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Tan SY, Tan CY, Yahya MA, Low SC, Shahrizaila N, Goh KJ. Quantitative muscle ultrasound as a disease biomarker in hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis with polyneuropathy. Neurol Sci 2024; 45:3449-3459. [PMID: 38270729 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-024-07340-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is an increasing need for a reproducible and sensitive outcome measure in patients with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv) with polyneuropathy (PN) due to the emergence of disease modifying therapies. In the current study, we aimed to investigate the role of quantitative muscle ultrasound (QMUS) as a disease biomarker in ATTRv-PN. METHODS Twenty genetically confirmed ATTRv amyloidosis patients (nine symptomatic, 11 pre-symptomatic) were enrolled prospectively between January to March 2023. Muscle ultrasound was performed on six muscles at standardized locations. QMUS parameters included muscle thickness (MT) and muscle echo intensity (EI). Twenty-five age- and sex-matched healthy controls were recruited for comparison. Significant QMUS parameters were correlated with clinical outcome measures. RESULTS Muscle volume of first dorsal interosseus (FDI) muscle [measured as cross-sectional area (CSA)] was significantly lower in symptomatic patients compared to healthy controls and pre-symptomatic carriers (98.3 ± 58.0 vs. 184.4 ± 42.5 vs. 198.3 ± 56.8, p < 0.001). EI of biceps and FDI for symptomatic ATTRv-PN patients were significantly higher compared to the other two groups (biceps: 76.4 ± 10.8 vs. 63.2 ± 11.5 vs. 59.2 ± 9.0, p = 0.002; FDI: 48.2 ± 7.5 vs. 38.8 ± 7.5 vs. 33.0 ± 5.3, p < 0.001). CSA of FDI and EI of biceps and FDI correlated with previous validated outcome measures [polyneuropathy disability score, neuropathy impairment score, Karnofsky performance scale, Rasch-built overall disability scale, European quality of life (QoL)-5 dimensions and Norfolk QoL questionnaire-diabetic neuropathy]. CONCLUSION QMUS revealed significant difference between ATTRv amyloidosis patients and healthy controls and showed strong correlation with clinical outcome measures. QMUS serves as a sensitive and reliable biomarker of disease severity in ATTRv-PN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siew Yin Tan
- Department of Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Cheng Yin Tan
- Department of Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Lembah Pantai, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Mohd Azly Yahya
- Neurophysiology Laboratory, University of Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Soon Chai Low
- Department of Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nortina Shahrizaila
- Department of Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Khean Jin Goh
- Department of Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Beauvais D, Labeyrie C, Cauquil C, Francou B, Eliahou L, Not A, Echaniz-Laguna A, Adam C, Slama MS, Benmalek A, Leonardi L, Rouzet F, Adams D, Algalarrondo V, Beaudonnet G. Detailed clinical, physiological and pathological phenotyping can impact access to disease-modifying treatments in ATTR carriers. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2024; 95:489-499. [PMID: 37875336 PMCID: PMC11103288 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2023-332180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis is a life-threatening autosomal dominant systemic disease due to pathogenic TTR variants (ATTRv), mostly affecting the peripheral nerves and heart. The disease is characterised by a combination of symptoms, organ involvement and histological amyloid deposition. The available disease-modifying ATTRv treatments (DMTs) are more effective if initiated early. Pathological nerve conduction studies (NCS) results are the cornerstone of large-fibre polyneuropathy diagnosis, but this anomaly occurs late in the disease. We investigated the utility of a multimodal neurological and cardiac evaluation for detecting early disease onset in ATTRv carriers. METHODS We retrospectively analysed a cohort of ATTRv carriers with normal NCS results regardless of symptoms. Multimodal denervation and infiltration evaluations included a clinical questionnaire (Lauria and New York Heart Association (NYHA)) and examination, intra-epidermal nerve fibre density assessment, autonomic assessment based on heart rate variability, Sudoscan, meta-iodo-benzyl-guanidine scintigraphy, cardiac biomarkers, echocardiography, MRI and searches for amyloidosis on skin biopsy and bone scintigraphy. RESULTS We included 130 ATTRv carriers (40.8% men, age: 43.6±13.5 years), with 18 amyloidogenic TTR gene mutations, the majority of which was the late-onset Val30Met variant (42.3%). Amyloidosis was detected in 16.9% of mutation carriers, including 9 (6.9%) with overt disease (Lauria>2 or NYHA>1) and 13 asymptomatic carriers (10%) with organ involvement (small-fibre neuropathy or cardiomyopathy). Most of these patients received DMT. Abnormal test results of unknown significance were obtained for 105 carriers (80.8%). Investigations were normal in only three carriers (2.3%). CONCLUSIONS Multimodal neurological and cardiac investigation of TTRv carriers is crucial for the early detection of ATTRv amyloidosis and initiation of DMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Beauvais
- AP-HP, Service de neurologie, CHU Bicêtre, Centre de référence national des neuropathies amyloïdes familiales et autres neuropathies périphériques rares, CERAMIC, FILNEMUS Network, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- Department of Neurology (Nerve-Muscle Unit), AOC National Reference Center for Neuromuscular Disorders, University Hospital of Bordeaux (CHU Pellegrin), Bordeaux, France
| | - Céline Labeyrie
- AP-HP, Service de neurologie, CHU Bicêtre, Centre de référence national des neuropathies amyloïdes familiales et autres neuropathies périphériques rares, CERAMIC, FILNEMUS Network, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Cécile Cauquil
- AP-HP, Service de neurologie, CHU Bicêtre, Centre de référence national des neuropathies amyloïdes familiales et autres neuropathies périphériques rares, CERAMIC, FILNEMUS Network, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Bruno Francou
- AP-HP, Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire, Pharmacogénétique et Hormonologie, CHU Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | | | - Adeline Not
- AP-HP, Service de neurologie, CHU Bicêtre, Centre de référence national des neuropathies amyloïdes familiales et autres neuropathies périphériques rares, CERAMIC, FILNEMUS Network, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Andoni Echaniz-Laguna
- AP-HP, Service de neurologie, CHU Bicêtre, Centre de référence national des neuropathies amyloïdes familiales et autres neuropathies périphériques rares, CERAMIC, FILNEMUS Network, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- Université de Paris-Saclay, INSERM U1195, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Clovis Adam
- AP-HP, Service d'Anatomopathologie Clinique, CHU Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Michel S Slama
- AP-HP, Département de Cardiologie, CHU Bichat, Paris, France
| | - Anouar Benmalek
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Luca Leonardi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italy
| | - François Rouzet
- AP-HP, Service de Médecine nucléaire, CHU Bichat, Paris, France
| | - David Adams
- AP-HP, Service de neurologie, CHU Bicêtre, Centre de référence national des neuropathies amyloïdes familiales et autres neuropathies périphériques rares, CERAMIC, FILNEMUS Network, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- Université de Paris-Saclay, INSERM U1195, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Vincent Algalarrondo
- AP-HP, Département de Cardiologie, CHU Bichat, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Guillemette Beaudonnet
- AP-HP, Service de neurologie, CHU Bicêtre, Centre de référence national des neuropathies amyloïdes familiales et autres neuropathies périphériques rares, CERAMIC, FILNEMUS Network, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- AP-HP, Unité de Neurophysiologie Clinique et Epileptologie (UNCE), CHU Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
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Zaki N, Miller NJ, Frosk P, Sharma A. Amyloïdose héréditaire à transthyrétine accompagnée d’un syndrome du canal carpien. CMAJ 2024; 196:E501-E505. [PMID: 38621774 PMCID: PMC11019605 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.230671-f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Zaki
- Départments de médecine interne (Zaki, Sharma), de physiatrie et réadaptation (Miller) et de pédiatrie et de santé infantile (Frosk), Université du Manitoba, Winnipeg, Man.
| | - Nicholas J Miller
- Départments de médecine interne (Zaki, Sharma), de physiatrie et réadaptation (Miller) et de pédiatrie et de santé infantile (Frosk), Université du Manitoba, Winnipeg, Man
| | - Patrick Frosk
- Départments de médecine interne (Zaki, Sharma), de physiatrie et réadaptation (Miller) et de pédiatrie et de santé infantile (Frosk), Université du Manitoba, Winnipeg, Man
| | - Aditya Sharma
- Départments de médecine interne (Zaki, Sharma), de physiatrie et réadaptation (Miller) et de pédiatrie et de santé infantile (Frosk), Université du Manitoba, Winnipeg, Man
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Romano A, Guglielmino V, Bisogni G, Di Paolantonio A, Truini A, Minnella AM, Sciarrone MA, Vitali F, Maceroni M, Galosi E, Sabatelli M, Luigetti M. Early detection of nerve involvement in presymptomatic TTR mutation carriers: exploring potential markers of disease onset. Neurol Sci 2024; 45:1675-1684. [PMID: 37938457 PMCID: PMC10942905 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-07177-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hereditary transthyretin (ATTRv) amyloidosis is a heterogeneous, progressive, multisystemic disease with a life-threatening course if left untreated. Given the current availability of effective therapies, close follow-up of presymptomatic TTR mutation carriers is essential to recognize disease onset at the earliest sign. In addition to routine techniques, in recent years several novel tools have been proposed, although a consensus on their use has not been reached yet. In this paper, we aimed to evaluate possible markers of neuropathic disease onset intended to discriminate clinically asymptomatic carriers from early symptomatic patients, thus allowing timely treatment initiation. METHODS Thirty-eight presymptomatic carriers were enrolled. Clinical and electrophysiological findings at first evaluation and follow-up were collected. All carriers underwent an extensive clinical and instrumental evaluation according to the standard clinical practice. One or more non-routine investigations, whose use in this field is not yet validated (henceforth "unconventional"), were additionally assessed in a subgroup of individuals. RESULTS Based on the exclusive use of routine investigations, it was possible to define disease onset in 4/38 carriers during the follow-up. Employing additionally one or more "unconventional" tests, abnormal findings, indicative of a possible "conversion" to symptomatic disease, were detected in further 12 cases. More than half of our study cohort showed findings suggestive of small nerve fiber (SF) involvement at either invasive or non-invasive tests. CONCLUSIONS A close, multidisciplinary monitoring of presymptomatic TTR mutation carriers is fundamental, and diagnostic workup should include both routine and "unconventional" tests. Assessment of SF involvement is important also in non-endemic countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Romano
- UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Largo Agostino Gemelli, 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Guglielmino
- Dipartimento Di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Bisogni
- Centro Clinico NeMO Adulti, Fondazione Serena Onlus-Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Truini
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Maria Minnella
- Dipartimento Di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- UOC Oftalmologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Vitali
- Dipartimento Di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Maceroni
- Dipartimento Di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- UOC Oftalmologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Galosi
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Sabatelli
- Dipartimento Di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Centro Clinico NeMO Adulti, Fondazione Serena Onlus-Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Luigetti
- UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Largo Agostino Gemelli, 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.
- Dipartimento Di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.
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Zaki N, Miller NJ, Frosk P, Sharma A. Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis presenting with carpal tunnel syndrome. CMAJ 2024; 196:E95-E99. [PMID: 38286493 PMCID: PMC10833096 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.230671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Zaki
- Departments of Internal Medicine (Zaki, Sharma), Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (Miller), and Pediatrics and Child Health (Frosk), University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Man.
| | - Nicholas J Miller
- Departments of Internal Medicine (Zaki, Sharma), Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (Miller), and Pediatrics and Child Health (Frosk), University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Man
| | - Patrick Frosk
- Departments of Internal Medicine (Zaki, Sharma), Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (Miller), and Pediatrics and Child Health (Frosk), University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Man
| | - Aditya Sharma
- Departments of Internal Medicine (Zaki, Sharma), Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (Miller), and Pediatrics and Child Health (Frosk), University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Man
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Ando Y, Waddington-Cruz M, Sekijima Y, Koike H, Ueda M, Konishi H, Ishii T, Coelho T. Optimal practices for the management of hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis: real-world experience from Japan, Brazil, and Portugal. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2023; 18:323. [PMID: 37828588 PMCID: PMC10571420 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-023-02910-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary transthyretin (ATTRv) amyloidosis is a rare and autosomal dominant disorder associated with mutations in the transthyretin gene. Patients present with diverse symptoms related to sensory, motor, and autonomic neuropathy, as well as gastrointestinal, ocular, cardiac, renal and orthopedic symptoms, resulting from the deposition of transthyretin amyloid fibrils in multiple organs. The progressive nature of ATTRv amyloidosis necessitates pre- and post-onset monitoring of the disease. This review article is primarily based on a collation of discussions from a medical advisory board meeting in August 2021. In this article, we summarize the best practices in amyloidosis centers in three major endemic countries for ATTRv amyloidosis (Japan, Brazil, and Portugal), where most patients carry the Val30Met mutation in the transthyretin gene and the patients' genetic background was proven to be the same. The discussions highlighted the similarities and differences in the management of asymptomatic gene mutation carriers among the three countries in terms of the use of noninvasive tests and tissue biopsies and timing of starting the investigations. In addition, this article discusses a set of practical tests and examinations for monitoring disease progression applicable to neurologists working in diverse medical settings and generalizable in non-endemic countries and areas. This set of assessments consists of periodic (every 6 to 12 months) evaluations of patients' nutritional status and autonomic, renal, cardiac, ophthalmologic, and neurological functions. Physical examinations and patient-reported outcome assessments should be also scheduled every 6 to 12 months. Programs for monitoring gene mutation carriers and robust referral networks can aid in appropriate patient management in pre- to post-onset stages. For pre- and post-symptom onset testing for ATTRv amyloidosis, various noninvasive techniques are available; however, their applicability differs depending on the medical setting in each country and region, and the optimal option should be selected in view of the clinical settings, medical environment, and available healthcare resources in each region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukio Ando
- Department of Amyloidosis Research, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagasaki International University, 2825-7 Huis Ten Bosch Machi, Sasebo City, Nagasaki, 859-3298, Japan.
| | - Marcia Waddington-Cruz
- Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Centro de Estudos em Paramiloidose Antônio Rodrigues de Mello, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Yoshiki Sekijima
- Department of Medicine (Neurology and Rheumatology), Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Haruki Koike
- Department of Neurology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan
| | - Mitsuharu Ueda
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | | | | | - Teresa Coelho
- Andrade's Center for Familial Amyloidosis, Hospital Santo António, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Poli L, Labella B, Cotti Piccinelli S, Caria F, Risi B, Damioli S, Padovani A, Filosto M. Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis: a comprehensive review with a focus on peripheral neuropathy. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1242815. [PMID: 37869146 PMCID: PMC10585157 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1242815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyloidoses represent a group of diseases characterized by the pathological accumulation in the extracellular area of insoluble misfolded protein material called "amyloid". The damage to the tissue organization and the direct toxicity of the amyloidogenic substrates induce progressive dysfunctions in the organs involved. They are usually multisystem diseases involving several vital organs, such as the peripheral nerves, heart, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, liver, skin, and eyes. Transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) is related to abnormalities of transthyretin (TTR), a protein that acts as a transporter of thyroxine and retinol and is produced predominantly in the liver. ATTR is classified as hereditary (ATTRv) and wild type (ATTRwt). ATTRv is a severe systemic disease of adults caused by mutations in the TTR gene and transmitted in an autosomal dominant manner with incomplete penetrance. Some pathogenic variants in TTR are preferentially associated with a neurological phenotype (progressive peripheral sensorimotor polyneuropathy); others are more frequently associated with restrictive heart failure. However, many mutations express a mixed phenotype with neurological and cardiological involvement. ATTRv is now a treatable disease. A timely and definite diagnosis is essential in view of the availability of effective therapies that have revolutionized the management of affected patients. The purpose of this review is to familiarize the clinician with the disease and with the correct diagnostic pathways in order to obtain an early diagnosis and, consequently, the possibility of an adequate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loris Poli
- Unit of Neurology, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - Beatrice Labella
- Unit of Neurology, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Cotti Piccinelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- NeMO-Brescia Clinical Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, Brescia, Italy
| | - Filomena Caria
- NeMO-Brescia Clinical Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, Brescia, Italy
| | - Barbara Risi
- NeMO-Brescia Clinical Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, Brescia, Italy
| | - Simona Damioli
- NeMO-Brescia Clinical Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Padovani
- Unit of Neurology, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Filosto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- NeMO-Brescia Clinical Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, Brescia, Italy
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Pitarokoili K, Gold R, Fisse AL. Nerve ultrasound for the diagnosis and follow-up of peripheral neuropathies. Curr Opin Neurol 2023; 36:373-381. [PMID: 37382111 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000001183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose if this review is to provide an overview of the available data on the use of nerve ultrasound for the diagnosis and follow-up of peripheral neuropathies. RECENT FINDINGS During the last decade, nerve ultrasound has been established as a complementary tool for the evaluation of morphological changes mostly for immune-mediated polyneuropathies. Through the development of ultrasound protocols for evaluation of disease-specific sites, nerve ultrasound has proven to be a practical, widely available, reproducible diagnostic tool with no relevant contraindications. SUMMARY Cross-sectional area, echogenicity, morphology of the individual nerve fascicles, thickness of the epineurium, vascularization and mobility of the nerve are the main parameters evaluated with nerve ultrasound in polyneuropathies. Patients with typical chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy show multifocal nerve enlargements easily visible on the upper extremities and the brachial plexus, whereas its variants show focal nerve enlargements. On the other hand, axonal neuropathies including diabetic neuropathy present with isolated nerve enlargement mostly in compression sites.
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Gasparotti R, Salvalaggio A, Corbo D, Agazzi G, Cacciavillani M, Lozza A, Fenu S, De Vigili G, Tagliapietra M, Fabrizi GM, Pareyson D, Obici L, Briani C. Magnetic resonance neurography and diffusion tensor imaging of the sciatic nerve in hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis polyneuropathy. J Neurol 2023; 270:4827-4840. [PMID: 37329346 PMCID: PMC10511361 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11813-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The therapeutic advance in hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv amyloidosis) requires quantitative biomarkers of nerve involvement in order to foster early diagnosis and monitor therapy response. We aimed at quantitatively assessing Magnetic Resonance Neurography (MRN) and Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) properties of the sciatic nerve in subjects with ATTRv-amyloidosis-polyneuropathy (ATTRv-PN) and pre-symptomatic carriers (ATTRv-C). Twenty subjects with pathogenic variants of the TTR gene (mean age 62.20 ± 12.04 years), 13 ATTRv-PN, and 7 ATTRv-C were evaluated and compared with 20 healthy subjects (mean age 60.1 ± 8.27 years). MRN and DTI sequences were performed at the right thigh from the gluteal region to the popliteal fossa. Cross-sectional-area (CSA), normalized signal intensity (NSI), and DTI metrics, including fractional anisotropy (FA), mean (MD), axial (AD), and radial diffusivity (RD) of the right sciatic nerve were measured. Increased CSA, NSI, RD, and reduced FA of sciatic nerve differentiated ATTRv-PN from ATTRv-C and healthy subjects at all levels (p < 0.01). NSI differentiated ATTRv-C from controls at all levels (p < 0.05), RD at proximal and mid-thigh (1.04 ± 0.1 vs 0.86 ± 0.11 p < 0.01), FA at mid-thigh (0.51 ± 0.02 vs 0.58 ± 0.04 p < 0.01). According to receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, cutoff values differentiating ATTRv-C from controls (and therefore identifying subclinical sciatic involvement) were defined for FA, RD, and NSI. Significant correlations between MRI measures, clinical involvement and neurophysiology were found. In conclusion, the combination of quantitative MRN and DTI of the sciatic nerve can reliably differentiate ATTRv-PN, ATTRv-C, and healthy controls. More important, MRN and DTI were able to non-invasively identify early subclinical microstructural changes in pre-symptomatic carriers, thus representing a potential tool for early diagnosis and disease monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Gasparotti
- Neuroradiology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili Hospital, P.Le Spedali Civili 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Salvalaggio
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 5, 35128, Padua, Italy
- Padova Neuroscience Center (PNC), University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Daniele Corbo
- Neuroradiology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili Hospital, P.Le Spedali Civili 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giorgio Agazzi
- Neuroradiology Unit, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Lozza
- Amyloidosis Research and Treatment Center, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvia Fenu
- Rare Neurological Diseases Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Grazia De Vigili
- Parkinson and Movement Disorders Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Tagliapietra
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Fabrizi
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Davide Pareyson
- Rare Neurological Diseases Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Obici
- Amyloidosis Research and Treatment Center, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Chiara Briani
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 5, 35128, Padua, Italy
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Aldinc E, Campbell C, Gustafsson F, Beveridge A, Macey R, Marr L, Summers C, Zhang D. Musculoskeletal manifestations associated with transthyretin-mediated (ATTR) amyloidosis: a systematic review. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2023; 24:751. [PMID: 37740174 PMCID: PMC10517539 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-023-06853-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hereditary and wild-type transthyretin-mediated (ATTRv and ATTRwt) amyloidoses result from the misfolding of transthyretin and aggregation of amyloid plaques in multiple organ systems. Diagnosis of ATTR amyloidosis is often delayed due to its heterogenous and non-specific presentation. This review investigates the association of musculoskeletal (MSK) manifestations with ATTR amyloidosis and the delay from the onset of these manifestations to the diagnosis of ATTR amyloidosis. METHODS This systematic review utilized Medline and EMBASE databases. Search criteria were outlined using a pre-specified patient, intervention, comparator, outcome, time, study (PICOTS) criteria and included: amyloidosis, ATTR, and MSK manifestations. Publication quality was assessed utilizing Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklists. The search initially identified 7,139 publications, 164 of which were included. PICOTS criteria led to the inclusion of epidemiology, clinical burden and practice, pathophysiology, and temporality of MSK manifestations associated with ATTR amyloidosis. 163 publications reported on ATTR amyloidosis and MSK manifestations, and 13 publications reported on the delay in ATTR amyloidosis diagnosis following the onset of MSK manifestations. RESULTS The MSK manifestation most frequently associated with ATTR amyloidosis was carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS); spinal stenosis (SS) and osteoarthritis (OA), among others, were also identified. The exact prevalence of different MSK manifestations in patients with ATTR amyloidosis remains unclear, as a broad range of prevalence estimates were reported. Moreover, the reported prevalence of MSK manifestations showed no clear trend or distinction in association between ATTRv and ATTRwt amyloidosis. MSK manifestations precede the diagnosis of ATTR amyloidosis by years, and there was substantial variation in the reported delay to ATTR amyloidosis diagnosis. Reports do suggest a longer diagnostic delay in patients with ATTRv amyloidosis, with 2 to 12 years delay in ATTRv versus 1.3 to 1.9 years delay in ATTRwt amyloidosis. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that orthopedic surgeons may play a role in the early diagnosis of and treatment referrals for ATTR amyloidosis. Detection of MSK manifestations may enable earlier diagnosis and administration of effective treatments before disease progression occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Finn Gustafsson
- Rigshopsitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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11
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Breville G, Sukockiene E, Vargas MI, Lascano AM. Emerging biomarkers to predict clinical outcomes in Guillain-Barré syndrome. Expert Rev Neurother 2023; 23:1201-1215. [PMID: 37902064 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2023.2273386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an immune-mediated poly(radiculo)neuropathy with a variable clinical outcome. Identifying patients who are at risk of suffering from long-term disabilities is a great challenge. Biomarkers are useful to confirm diagnosis, monitor disease progression, and predict outcome. AREAS COVERED The authors provide an overview of the diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for GBS, which are useful for establishing early treatment strategies and follow-up care plans. EXPERT OPINION Detecting patients at risk of developing a severe outcome may improve management of disease progression and limit potential complications. Several clinical factors are associated with poor prognosis: higher age, presence of diarrhea within 4 weeks of symptom onset, rapid and severe weakness progression, dysautonomia, decreased vital capacity and facial, bulbar, and neck weakness. Biological, neurophysiological and imaging measures of unfavorable outcome include multiple anti-ganglioside antibodies elevation, increased serum and CSF neurofilaments light (NfL) and heavy chain, decreased NfL CSF/serum ratio, hypoalbuminemia, nerve conduction study with early signs of demyelination or axonal loss and enlargement of nerve cross-sectional area on ultrasound. Depicting prognostic biomarkers aims at predicting short-term mortality and need for cardio-pulmonary support, long-term patient functional outcome, guiding treatment decisions and monitoring therapeutic responses in future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gautier Breville
- Neurology Division, Neuroscience Department, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Egle Sukockiene
- Neurology Division, Neuroscience Department, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Maria Isabel Vargas
- Neuroradiology Division, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Agustina M Lascano
- Neurology Division, Neuroscience Department, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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12
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Padua L, Cuccagna C, Giovannini S, Coraci D, Pelosi L, Loreti C, Bernabei R, Hobson-Webb LD. Carpal tunnel syndrome: updated evidence and new questions. Lancet Neurol 2023; 22:255-267. [PMID: 36525982 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(22)00432-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common entrapment neuropathy, affecting quality of life for many people. Although it is a well recognised condition, new insights into epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment have emerged in the past 6 years. The availability of disease-modifying treatments for rare systemic disorders associated with carpal tunnel syndrome (eg, amyloidosis) should alert clinicians to these diagnostic possibilities. Besides clinical evaluation and electrophysiology, the role of ultrasonography as a diagnostic tool has been confirmed and new ultrasound techniques have been applied, the clinical use and feasibility of which require further investigation. Surgical and non-surgical interventions are beneficial for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome and several treatment options are now available, giving clinicians the possibility to choose the best approach for every patient. New diagnostic and therapeutic techniques require further validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Padua
- Department of Geriatrics and Orthopaedics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy; UOC Neuroriabilitazione Alta Intensità, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
| | - Cristina Cuccagna
- UOC Neuroriabilitazione Alta Intensità, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Giovannini
- Department of Geriatrics and Orthopaedics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy; UOS Riabilitazione Post-Acuzie, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Coraci
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Rehabilitation, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Luciana Pelosi
- Departments of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Bay of Plenty District Health Board, Tauranga Hospital, Tauranga, New Zealand
| | - Claudia Loreti
- Department of Aging, Neurological, Orthopaedic and Head-Neck Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Bernabei
- Department of Geriatrics and Orthopaedics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy; Department of Aging, Neurological, Orthopaedic and Head-Neck Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Lisa D Hobson-Webb
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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Salvalaggio A, Cacciavillani M, Tiengo C, Cipriani A, Frizziero L, Fedrigo M, Rizzo S, Angelini A, Gasparotti R, Briani C. Multimodal evaluation of carpal tunnel syndrome in a pre-symptomatic TTR mutation carrier. J Neurol Sci 2023; 448:120596. [PMID: 36870789 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2023.120596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A Salvalaggio
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Italy; Padova Neuroscience Center (PNC), University of Padova, Italy
| | | | - C Tiengo
- Plastic Surgery Unit, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Italy
| | - A Cipriani
- Department of Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Italy
| | - L Frizziero
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Italy
| | - M Fedrigo
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Pathology Unit, University of Padova, Italy
| | - S Rizzo
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Pathology Unit, University of Padova, Italy
| | - A Angelini
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Pathology Unit, University of Padova, Italy
| | - R Gasparotti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - C Briani
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Italy.
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14
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Ultrasonographic nerve enlargement in post-transplanted patient with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:1831-1832. [PMID: 36781565 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-06670-7] [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: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
A 43-year-old male patient with a 7-year history of liver transplantation due to p.Val50Met hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv) persisted with refractory neuropathic pain, distal weakness, and progressive worsening of dysautonomia. Nerve ultrasound was performed showing increased nerve cross-sectional area and enlarged fascicles in proximal sites in both arms, suggestive of amyloidosis. Nerve enlargement is commonly reported in inflammatory and hereditary demyelinating hypertrophic neuropathies but can also be present in deposition diseases. Neuromuscular ultrasound is a tool for the bed-side assessment of peripheral neuropathies and it is useful for early diagnosis of ATTRv.
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15
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Peripheral nerve involvement in wild-type transthyretin amyloidosis. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:351-354. [PMID: 36260260 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-06459-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIMRPOSE Neurological involvement other than carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) has rarely been observed in wild-type transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRwt). The aim of our study was to investigate peripheral nerve involvement in ATTRwt. METHODS Patients diagnosed with ATTRwt (negative molecular testing, confirmed cardiac uptake at bone scintigraphy, Perugini score 2 or 3) were considered. Sixteen men (mean age 75 ± 6.2, range 65-86 years) were enrolled. Neurological examination (Neuropathy Impairment Score, NIS), questionnaires on autonomic function and quality of life (QoL), electrodiagnostic studies (EDX), nerve ultrasound, and Sudoscan (electrochemical skin conductance, ESC) were performed. The presence of peripheral neuropathy was defined according to the detection of any abnormal finding at lower limbs other than CTS at EDX studies, regardless of NIS scores. RESULTS Ten (62.5%) ATTRwt had abnormal NIS scores. At EDX, CTS was observed in 13/16 (81.2%), with 3/16 (18.8%) presenting also axonal peripheral neuropathy. Extensive workup ruled out common causes of neuropathy. Eight (50%) ATTRwt patients had orthostatic hypotension (OH). Abnormal ESC was observed in 9/14 (64%) ATTRwt patients. DISCUSSION Despite being uncommon, we observed peripheral nervous system involvement in ATTRwt (large and small fiber dysfunction). Being elderly, ATTRwt patients may have age-related conditions acting as confounding factors for the diagnosis of neuropathy that however can be detected with a careful examination and use of specific tests, including those for autonomic dysfunction.
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16
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Arvidsson S, Eriksson R, Anan I, Heldestad V. Enlarged cross-sectional area in peripheral nerves in Swedish patients with hereditary V30M transthyretin amyloidosis. Ann Med 2023; 55:2239269. [PMID: 37619249 PMCID: PMC10453973 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2023.2239269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv), two different fibrillar forms causing the amyloid deposition, have been identified, displaying substantially cardiac or neuropathic symptoms. Neuropathic symptoms are more frequent in early-onset patients, whereas late-onset patients, besides cardiac symptoms, seem to develop carpal tunnel syndrome, more often. With ultrasonography (US) of peripheral nerves, it is possible to distinguish structural changes, and enlarged cross-sectional area (CSA). The main purpose of this study was, for the first time, to elucidate US of peripheral nerves in Swedish ATTRv patients at an early stage of the disease, and to evaluate possible early enlarged CSA. MATERIAL AND METHODS This prospective study included first visit data of 13 patients, aged 30-88 years, of which 11 with late-onset age. All had a positive V30M mutation. Eight men and six women (aged 28-74 years) served as controls. RESULTS Significantly enlarged CSA was seen in ATTRv patients for the tibial nerve at the ankle (p = .001), the sural nerve (p < .001), the peroneal nerve at the popliteal fossa (p = .003), and the ulnar nerve at the middle upper arm (p = .007). CONCLUSION US of peripheral nerves could be a valuable tool in disease evaluation and could facilitate monitoring of disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Arvidsson
- Department of Surgical and Perioperative Sciences, Umeå University, Umea, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umea, Sweden
| | - Robert Eriksson
- Clinical Neurophysiology, Umeå University Hospital, Umea, Sweden
| | - Intissar Anan
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umea, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, Umea, Sweden
| | - Victoria Heldestad
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umea, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Umeå University, Umea, Sweden
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17
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Cutaneous silent period in ATTRv carriers: a possible early marker of nerve damage? Neurol Sci 2022; 43:6979-6982. [PMID: 35943637 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-06317-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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18
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Murakami T, Watanabe H, Yamamoto A, Sunada Y. Magnetic resonance imaging of dorsal root ganglion in a pre-symptomatic subject with familial amyloid polyneuropathy transthyretin E61K. J Neurol Sci 2022; 440:120329. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2022.120329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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19
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Kaku MC, Bhadola S, Berk JL, Sanchorawala V, Connors LH, Lau KHV. Neurological manifestations of hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis: a focus on diagnostic delays. Amyloid 2022; 29:184-189. [PMID: 35253562 DOI: 10.1080/13506129.2022.2046557] [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] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recent availability of disease-modifying therapies for hereditary transthyretin amyloid (ATTRv) amyloidosis warrants urgency for earlier diagnosis and timely identification of active disease state among genetic carriers. METHODS We reviewed clinical neurological data of all patients with ATTRv amyloidosis with initial visits at our amyloidosis centre between January 2016 and December 2018. We abstracted the signs and symptoms of neurological manifestations, as well as rates and patterns of diagnostic testing. RESULTS Of 92 patients with 19 different transthyretin (TTR) mutations, 66 and 36% had symptoms attributed to large-fibre and small-fibre neuropathy, respectively, compared to 75 and 66% with corresponding examination findings. Thirty-six patients with V122I ATTR mutation had asymptomatic polyneuropathy identified on neurological examination, eight without concurrent cardiac disease. Seventy-three percent of patients had symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), while 26% had dysautonomia. The average delays between the onset of symptoms of large fibre neuropathy (LFN) or CTS to ATTRv amyloidosis diagnosis were 2.9 and 6.7 years, respectively. DISCUSSION Our study found higher rates of polyneuropathy by examination than patient-reported symptoms, especially among those with V122I TTR amyloidosis, signalling asymptomatic polyneuropathy. Our findings suggest the need for routine neurological examinations and other testing for genetic carriers to achieve earlier identification of active disease state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle C Kaku
- Amyloidosis Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shivkumar Bhadola
- Amyloidosis Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John L Berk
- Amyloidosis Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Lawreen H Connors
- Amyloidosis Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - K H Vincent Lau
- Amyloidosis Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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20
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Luigetti M, Guglielmino V, Romozzi M, Romano A, Di Paolantonio A, Bisogni G, Sabatelli E, Modoni A, Sabatelli M, Servidei S, Lo Monaco M. Nerve Conduction Studies of Dorsal Sural Nerve: Normative Data and Its Potential Application in ATTRv Pre-Symptomatic Subjects. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12081037. [PMID: 36009100 PMCID: PMC9406159 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12081037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of the study is to provide age-related normative values for dorsal sural nerve (DSN) and to analyse its application during follow-up of hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv) pre-symptomatic subjects. We consecutively recruited ATTRv pre-symptomatic carriers in which clinical examination, cardiological evaluation, and nerve conduction studies of the sural nerve and DSN were performed. To provide normative data of DSN, neurophysiologic parameters from healthy controls referred to our service were entered into linear regression analyses to check the relative influence of age and height. A correction grid was then derived. We collected 231 healthy subjects: the mean DSN sensory nerve action potential (SNAP) amplitude was 9.99 ± 5.48 μV; the mean conduction velocity was 49.01 ± 5.31 m/s. Significant correlations were found between age and height with DSN SNAP amplitude. Fifteen ATTRv pre-symptomatic carriers were examined. Sural nerve NCS were normal in 12/15 and revealed low/borderline values in three subjects. Considering our correction grid, we found an abnormal DNS amplitude in 9/15 subjects and low/borderline values in 2/15. In ATTRv, early detection of peripheral nerve damage is crucial to start a disease-modifying treatment. DSN may be easily and reliably included in the routine neurophysiological follow-up of ATTRv pre-symptomatic subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Luigetti
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, UOC Neurologia, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento Di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-30154435
| | - Valeria Guglielmino
- Dipartimento Di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Marina Romozzi
- Dipartimento Di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Romano
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, UOC Neurologia, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento Di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Di Paolantonio
- Dipartimento Di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Bisogni
- Centro Clinico NEMO, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Roma, Italy
| | - Eleonora Sabatelli
- Dipartimento Di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Modoni
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, UOC Neurologia, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento Di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Sabatelli
- Dipartimento Di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Centro Clinico NEMO, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Roma, Italy
| | - Serenella Servidei
- Dipartimento Di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, UOC Neurofisiopatologia, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Lo Monaco
- MiA Onlus (“Miotonici in Associazione”), 80055 Portici, Italy
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Shije JZ, Bautista MAB, Smotherman C. The Frequency of V122I Transthyretin Mutation in a Cohort of African American Individuals With Bilateral Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Front Neurol 2022; 13:949401. [PMID: 35959393 PMCID: PMC9360589 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.949401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (hATTR) can cause multisystem organ disorders including polyneuropathy and cardiomyopathy. Amongst the many known pathologic mutations of the transthyretin (TTR) gene, the Val122Ile (V122I) mutation can be found in 3–4% of African Americans. Up to 47% of patients with the V122I hATTR cardiomyopathy had a history of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). This raises the question should we screen for this mutation in African Americans with bilateral CTS for the purpose of preventing advanced disease associated with hATTR. This is a prospective pilot study to determine the likelihood of African Americans with bilateral CTS having the V122I mutation and whether various clinical factors contribute to that probability. Methodology Adult African American patients without prior history of amyloidosis diagnosed with bilateral CTS were recruited for the study. They received genetic testing to screen for a TTR mutation. They also completed questionnaires to screen for symptoms of cardiomyopathy and neuropathy, other risk factors for CTS, and family history of CTS and cardiomyopathy. Result Two of the sixteen patients (12.5%) in this cohort were found to have the V122I mutation. The absence of polyneuropathy and cardiomyopathy symptoms, presence of other CTS risk factors, and absence of family history of CTS and cardiomyopathy did not decrease the likelihood of V122I mutation in this cohort. Conclusion The frequency of V122I transthyretin mutation in African Americans with bilateral CTS may be higher than 3–4%. The presence of bilateral CTS alone may be a justification to screen for TTR mutation in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Z. Shije
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL, United States
- *Correspondence: Jeffrey Z. Shije ;
| | - Maria A. B. Bautista
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Carmen Smotherman
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL, United States
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22
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Ultrasound of cervical nerve root enlargement in polyneuropathy is not confounded by neuroforaminal stenoses. Clin Neurophysiol 2022; 141:34-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2022.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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23
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Carroll A, Dyck PJ, de Carvalho M, Kennerson M, Reilly MM, Kiernan MC, Vucic S. Novel approaches to diagnosis and management of hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2022; 93:668-678. [PMID: 35256455 PMCID: PMC9148983 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2021-327909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv) is a severe, adult-onset autosomal dominant inherited systemic disease predominantly affecting the peripheral and autonomic nervous system, heart, kidney and the eyes. ATTRv is caused by mutations of the transthyretin (TTR) gene, leading to extracellular deposition of amyloid fibrils in multiple organs including the peripheral nervous system. Typically, the neuropathy associated with ATTRv is characterised by a rapidly progressive and disabling sensorimotor axonal neuropathy with early small-fibre involvement. Carpal tunnel syndrome and cardiac dysfunction frequently coexist as part of the ATTRv phenotype. Although awareness of ATTRv polyneuropathy among neurologists has increased, the rate of misdiagnosis remains high, resulting in significant diagnostic delays and accrued disability. A timely and definitive diagnosis is important, given the emergence of effective therapies which have revolutionised the management of transthyretin amyloidosis. TTR protein stabilisers diflunisal and tafamidis can delay the progression of the disease, if treated early in the course. Additionally, TTR gene silencing medications, patisiran and inotersen, have resulted in up to 80% reduction in TTR production, leading to stabilisation or slight improvement of peripheral neuropathy and cardiac dysfunction, as well as improvement in quality of life and functional outcomes. The considerable therapeutic advances have raised additional challenges, including optimisation of diagnostic techniques and management approaches in ATTRv neuropathy. This review highlights the key advances in the diagnostic techniques, current and emerging management strategies, and biomarker development for disease progression in ATTRv.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Carroll
- Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Translational Research Collective, University of Sydney and Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - P James Dyck
- Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Mamede de Carvalho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital de Santa Maria, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Marina Kennerson
- Northcott Neuroscience Laboratory, ANZAC Research Institute, Molecular Medicine Laboratory Concord Repatriation General Hospital, and Concord Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mary M Reilly
- MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Institute of Neurology and National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Matthew C Kiernan
- Bushell Chair of Neurology, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Steve Vucic
- Brain and Nerve Research Center, Concord Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Coraci D, Maccarone MC, Ragazzo L, Ronconi G, Masiero S. “Catch me if you can”. The contribution of ultrasound to rapidly unveil a nerve lesion. J Clin Neurosci 2022; 106:233-234. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2022.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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25
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Severi D, Aruta F, Iovino A, Spina E, Nolano M, Manganelli F, Tozza S. Can we identify hereditary TTR amyloidosis by the screening of carpal tunnel syndrome patients? Neurol Sci 2022; 43:3435-3438. [DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05851-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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26
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A compound score to screen patients with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis. J Neurol 2022; 269:4281-4287. [PMID: 35279758 PMCID: PMC9293821 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11056-4] [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: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv) is a rare, debilitating and fatal disease, mostly characterized by progressive axonal peripheral neuropathy. Diagnosis is still challenging and diagnostic delay in non-endemic area is about 3–4 years. The aim of this study was to arrange a clinical and electrophysiological score to select patients with axonal neuropathy that deserve screening for TTR mutation. Methods Thirty-five ATTRv patients and 55 patients with chronic idiopathic axonal polyneuropathy (CIAP) were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical and electrophysiological findings at first evaluation were collected. Based on significant results between the two groups, a compound (clinical and electrophysiological) score was arranged, and ROC analysis was performed to identify the ideal cut-off able to discriminate between the two groups. Results ATTRv patients presented a later age at onset, more frequent muscle weakness and carpal tunnel syndrome history. On the other hand, electrophysiological analysis showed that ATTRv patients had lower CMAP and SAP amplitude in all examined nerves. We arranged a compound score constituted by 7 total items, ranging from 0 to 12. ROC analysis showed an Area Under the Curve = 0.8655 and we set the cut-off ≥ 5 points to discriminate ATTRv patients with a sensitivity of 96.6% and a specificity of 63.6%. Conclusion Our study demonstrated that our compound score with cut-off ≥ 5 allows to discriminate ATTRv patients among subject affected by axonal polyneuropathy with a sensitivity > 95%. Thus, our compound score is a quick, easy and effective screening tool.
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Li Z, Du K, Chu X, Lv H, Zhang W, Wang Z, Yuan Y, Meng L. TTR Gly83Arg Mutation: Beyond Familial Vitreous Amyloidosis. Front Neurol 2022; 12:821003. [PMID: 35185758 PMCID: PMC8850374 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.821003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gly83Arg variation is a type of TTR mutation specific to the Chinese population. Patients of hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) with Gly83Arg variation predominantly present with blurred vision and most of these cases are reported by ophthalmologists. There is currently no systematic assessment of extraocular features of ATTR with Gly83Arg variation. METHODS Six patients and two asymptomatic carriers with molecularly confirmed Gly83Arg variation of ATTR from three unrelated families were identified by sequencing the TTR gene. The clinical, electrophysiological, ultrasonic, and pathological data were collected and analyzed. RESULTS This study included six patients and two carriers with TTR Gly83Arg mutation, all of whom came from the Han nationality of China. The average age of onset for the six patients was 39 years, and the course of disease ranged from 5 to 19 years. All the patients started with blurred vision, which was diagnosed as vitreous opacity (VO). Most of the patients developed sensory-motor polyneuropathies over years or even more than a decade (4-15 years) after VO. However, the heterogeneity of peripheral neuropathies among these patients remained large between families. Autonomic impairment also occurred after VO, with varying degrees of abnormalities seen in the associated autonomic assessments. None of the patients had any symptoms of cardiac impairment, but abnormal results were found in examinations. A combined biopsy of the sural nerve and muscle was also performed. Nerve pathology revealed the moderately reduced myelinated nerve fiber density and muscle pathology showed predominant neurogenic impairment accompanied by possible myogenic impairment. CONCLUSIONS This is a detailed account of Gly83Arg mutation-related ATTR, focusing on the extraocular presentations of this special variant in Chinese. Clinical features of this variant are early-onset, ocular involvement predominance, neurological, and cardiac involvement along with the disease, and relatively long survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenxian Li
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neurovascular Disease Discovery, Beijing, China
| | - Kang Du
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neurovascular Disease Discovery, Beijing, China
| | - Xujun Chu
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neurovascular Disease Discovery, Beijing, China
| | - He Lv
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neurovascular Disease Discovery, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neurovascular Disease Discovery, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaoxia Wang
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neurovascular Disease Discovery, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Yuan
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neurovascular Disease Discovery, Beijing, China
| | - Lingchao Meng
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neurovascular Disease Discovery, Beijing, China
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28
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High-resolution ultrasound of peripheral nerves in late-onset hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis with polyneuropathy: similarities and differences with CIDP. Neurol Sci 2021; 43:3387-3394. [PMID: 34802089 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05749-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis with polyneuropathy (ATTRv-PN) remains a diagnostic challenge due to clinical, neurophysiological, and laboratory findings suggestive of other diagnoses, particularly chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). In this cross-sectional prospective study, we aimed to investigate the utility of high-resolution ultrasonography of peripheral nerves as a diagnostic tool to differentiate ATTRv-PN from CIDP. METHODS In 11 treatment-naive patients with genetically confirmed late-onset ATTRv-PN and 25 patients with CIDP, we collected clinical, electrodiagnostic, and high-resolution ultrasonography data of the peripheral nerves. In each patient, we used high-resolution ultrasonography to assess 26 nerve sites. RESULTS Of the 11 patients with ATTRv-PN, two had electrodiagnostic study data compatible with a CIDP diagnosis. High-resolution ultrasonography showed that the cross-sectional area of the brachial plexus, median nerve at the axilla, arm, and forearm, ulnar nerve at the forearm, and peroneal nerve at the popliteal fossa were significantly smaller in the 11 ATTRv-PN patients than in CIDP patients. However, in the two patients with electrodiagnostic study data compatible with a CIDP diagnosis, high-resolution nerve ultrasonography data were comparable to those in patients with CIDP. CONCLUSION Although high-resolution ultrasonography of peripheral nerves provides reliable information in patients with ATTRv-PN, its usefulness as a standalone diagnostic tool to differentiate ATTRv-PN from CIDP might be limited.
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Hannaford A, Vucic S, Kiernan MC, Simon NG. Review Article "Spotlight on Ultrasonography in the Diagnosis of Peripheral Nerve Disease: The Evidence to Date". Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:4579-4604. [PMID: 34429642 PMCID: PMC8378935 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s295851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuromuscular ultrasound is rapidly becoming incorporated into clinical practice as a standard tool in the assessment of peripheral nerve diseases. Ultrasound complements clinical phenotyping and electrodiagnostic evaluation, providing critical structural anatomical information to enhance diagnosis and identify structural pathology. This review article examines the evidence supporting neuromuscular ultrasound in the diagnosis of compressive mononeuropathies, traumatic nerve injury, generalised peripheral neuropathy and motor neuron disease. Extending the sonographic evaluation of nerves beyond simple morphological measurements has the potential to improve diagnostics in peripheral neuropathy, as well as advancing the understanding of pathological mechanisms, which in turn will promote precise therapies and improve therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Hannaford
- Westmead Clinical School, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Steve Vucic
- Westmead Clinical School, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Matthew C Kiernan
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, University of Sydney and Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Neil G Simon
- Northern Beaches Clinical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
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30
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Progressive brachial plexus enlargement in hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis. J Neurol 2021; 269:1905-1912. [PMID: 34410494 PMCID: PMC8940842 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-021-10754-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Axonal polyneuropathy is the main feature of hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv). Nerve morphological abnormalities have been reported, but longitudinal changes have never been assessed. We performed a prospective widespread nerve ultrasound evaluation and nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) was compared with baseline data in both ATTRv patients and pre-symptomatic carriers. Thirty-eight subjects were evaluated (mean follow-up 17.1 months), among them 21 had polyneuropathy while 17 were pre-symptomatic carriers. CSA significantly increased at brachial plexus in both groups (p = 0.008 and p = 0.012) pointing to progressive brachial plexus enlargement as a longitudinal biomarker of both disease progression and disease occurrence in pre-symptomatic carriers.
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Leonardi L, Galosi E, Vanoli F, Fasolino A, Di Pietro G, Luigetti M, Sabatelli M, Fionda L, Garibaldi M, Alfieri G, Lauletta A, Morino S, Salvetti M, Truini A, Antonini G. Skin biopsy and quantitative sensory assessment in an Italian cohort of ATTRv patients with polyneuropathy and asymptomatic carriers: possible evidence of early non-length dependent denervation. Neurol Sci 2021; 43:1359-1364. [PMID: 34189665 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05434-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
AIM Study of intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) by skin biopsy represents a promising tool in the evaluation of patients with ATTRv polyneuropathy (ATTRv-PN). Herein, we retrospectively analyze intraepidermal innervation and quantitative sensory test (QST) data from an Italian cohort of Italian ATTRv-PN patients and asymptomatic carriers aimed to provide insights into early nerve pathological and functional changes in this disease. METHODS IENFD and QST data of 14 ATTRv-PN patients and 14 asymptomatic carriers were retrospectively analyzed together with clinical and paraclinical data such as disease stage and severity, neuropathic pain scales, and sural SNAP amplitude. RESULTS Given an estimated time to the predicted age of onset of symptomatic disease of 20.27 + / - 7.9 years, small nerve fiber loss seems to be unexpectedly early in carriers. Moreover, carriers showed skin denervation at the proximal (thigh) site, suggesting a non-length-dependent neuropathic process. IENFD at ankle correlated with disease severity and other paraclinical variables such as sural nerve potential amplitude and QST parameters. Patients at earlier stages of the disease did not show significant differences in ankle IENFD compared with asymptomatic carriers, but significant differences in terms of QST parameters, small fiber neuropathy symptoms, and neuropathic pain. CONCLUSIONS Skin biopsy can disclose an early non-length-dependent small fiber loss in ATTRv-PN and, together with QST, could provide a useful insight disease onset and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Leonardi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 1035-39 Grottarossa St., Rome, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Galosi
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fiammetta Vanoli
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 1035-39 Grottarossa St., Rome, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Di Pietro
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Luigetti
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, UOC Neurologia, Rome, Italy.,Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Sabatelli
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Centro Clinico NEMO, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Fionda
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 1035-39 Grottarossa St., Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Garibaldi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 1035-39 Grottarossa St., Rome, Italy
| | - Girolamo Alfieri
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 1035-39 Grottarossa St., Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Lauletta
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 1035-39 Grottarossa St., Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Morino
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 1035-39 Grottarossa St., Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Salvetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 1035-39 Grottarossa St., Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Truini
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Antonini
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 1035-39 Grottarossa St., Rome, Italy
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Patisiran in hATTR Amyloidosis: Six-Month Latency Period before Efficacy. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11040515. [PMID: 33921571 PMCID: PMC8073153 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11040515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary amyloidosis associated with mutations in the transthyretin gene (hATTR) is a progressive devastating disease, with a fatal outcome occurring within 10years after onset. In recent years, TTR gene silencing therapy appeared as a promising therapeutic strategy, showing evidence that disease progression can be slowed and perhaps reversed. We report here 18 subjects affected by hATTR amyloidosis treated with patisiran, a small interfering RNA acting as TTR silencer, and evaluated with a PND score, the NIS and NIS-LL scale, and a Norfolk QOL-DN questionnaire at baseline and then every 6 months. A global clinical stabilizationwas observed for the majority of the patients, with mild-moderate improvements in some cases, even in advanced disease stage (PND score > 2). Analysis of NIS, NIS-LL and Norfolk QOL-DN results, and PND score variation suggest the possible presence of a 6-month latency period prior to benefit of treatment.
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33
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Du K, Xu K, Cheng S, Lv H, Zhang W, Wang Z, Yuan Y, Meng L. Nerve Ultrasound Comparison Between Transthyretin Familial Amyloid Polyneuropathy and Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy. Front Neurol 2021; 12:632096. [PMID: 33716932 PMCID: PMC7953716 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.632096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds: Transthyretin familial amyloid polyneuropathy (TTR-FAP) is frequently misdiagnosed as chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) because of similar phenotypes in the two diseases. This study was intended to identify the role of nerve ultrasonography in evaluating TTR-FAP and CIDP. Methods: Eighteen patients with TTR-FAP, 13 patients with CIDP, and 14 healthy controls (HC) were enrolled in this study. Consecutive ultrasonography scanning was performed in six pairs of nerves of bilateral limbs with 30 sites. The cross-sectional areas (CSAs) and CSA variability data of different groups were calculated and compared. Results: Both TTR-FAP and CIDP showed larger CSAs at most sites of both upper and lower limbs than in HC groups. CIDP patients had larger CSAs than TTR-FAP patients at 8/15 of these sites, especially at U1-3, Sci2 sites (p < 0.01). However, the CSAs at above sites were not a credible index to differentiate TTR-FAP from CIDP with a low area under the curve (<0.8). The CSA variability of median nerves was significantly higher in CIDP than in TTR-FAP and HC groups, with high sensitivity (0.692) and specificity (0.833) to differentiate CIDP from TTR-FAP. The CSA variability of ulnar nerves was not significantly different between the three groups. For the TTR-FAP group, mean CSAs at each site were not correlated with different Coutinho stages, modified polyneuropathy disability, course of sensory motor peripheral neuropathy, Neuropathy Impairment Score, or Norfolk Quality of life-diabetic neuropathy score. The mean compound muscle action potential of ulnar nerves was negatively correlated with the mean CSAs of ulnar nerves. Interpretation: TTR-FAP patients had milder nerve enlargement with less variability in CSAs of median nerves than those with CIDP, suggesting that nerve ultrasound can be a potential useful auxiliary tool to help differentiate the two neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang Du
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Si Cheng
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - He Lv
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaoxia Wang
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Yuan
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lingchao Meng
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
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Nerve Ultrasound as Helpful Tool in Polyneuropathies. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11020211. [PMID: 33572591 PMCID: PMC7910962 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11020211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Polyneuropathies (PNP) are a broad field of diseases affecting millions of people. While the symptoms presented are mostly similar, underlying causes are abundant. Thus, early identification of treatable causes is often difficult. Besides clinical data and basic laboratory findings, nerve conduction studies are crucial for etiological classification, yet limited. Besides Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), high-resolution nerve ultrasound (HRUS) has become a noninvasive, fast, economic and available tool to help distinguish different types of nerve alterations in neuropathies. Methods: We aim to describe typical ultrasound findings in PNP and patterns of morphological changes in hereditary, immune-mediated, diabetic, metabolic and neurodegenerative PNP. Literature research was performed in PubMed using the terms ‘nerve ultrasound’, neuromuscular ultrasound, high-resolution nerve ultrasound, peripheral nerves, nerve enlargement, demyelinating, hereditary, polyneuropathies, hypertrophy’. Results: Plenty of studies over the past 20 years investigated the value of nerve ultrasound in different neuropathies. Next to nerve enlargement, patterns of nerve enlargement, echointensity, vascularization and elastography have been evaluated for diagnostic terms. Furthermore, different scores have been developed to distinguish different etiologies of PNP. Conclusions: Where morphological alterations of the nerves reflect underlying pathologies, early nerve ultrasound might enable a timely start of available treatment and also facilitate follow up of therapy success.
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35
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Salvalaggio A, Coraci D, Cacciavillani M, Padua L, Briani C. Nerve ultrasonography features in hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis with V30M mutation and polyneuropathy. Neurol Sci 2021; 42:2547-2548. [PMID: 33415458 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-020-05033-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Salvalaggio
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, via Giustiniani 5, 35128, Padova, Italy. .,Padova Neuroscience Center (PNC), University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - Daniele Coraci
- Neuroriabilitazione ad Alta Intensità, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, RM, Italy
| | | | - Luca Padua
- Neuroriabilitazione ad Alta Intensità, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, RM, Italy.,Department of Geriatrics, Neurosciences and Orthopaedics, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Briani
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, via Giustiniani 5, 35128, Padova, Italy
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Leonardi L, Vanoli F, Fionda L, Loreti S, Garibaldi M, Morino S, Salvetti M, Russo D, Musumeci B, Antonini G. Nerve ultrasonography findings as possible pitfall in differential diagnosis between hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis with polyneuropathy and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. Neurol Sci 2020; 41:3775-3778. [PMID: 32936357 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-020-04717-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis with polyneuropathy (ATTRv-PN) is a rare form of treatable severe progressive sensory-motor and autonomic polyneuropathy. Albeit usually axonal, late-onset ATTRv-PN can show clear demyelinating features at electrodiagnostic studies, sometimes fulfilling CIDP diagnostic criteria. High-resolution nerve ultrasonography (HRUS) is an emerging useful supportive tool in the diagnosis of CIDP. Herein, we present a late-onset ATTRv-PN patient in which both clinical-neurophysiological and HRUS features could have led to a CIDP misdiagnosis. Nerve alterations at HRUS and MRI have already been reported in ATTRv-PN, albeit not in ATTRv-PN patients with clinical and electrodiagnostic features of CIDP. Our case shows that ATTRv-PN could present the same morphological nerve alterations pattern of CIDP at ultrasonography, adding HRUS findings as a further source of misdiagnosis late-onset ATTRv-PN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Leonardi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Fiammetta Vanoli
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Fionda
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Loreti
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Garibaldi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Morino
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Salvetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Domitilla Russo
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, St. Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Beatrice Musumeci
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, St. Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Antonini
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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