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Berends M, Brunger AF, Bijzet J, Kroesen BJ, Drost G, Lange F, Teunissen CE, In 't Veld S, Vrancken AF, Gans ROB, Hazenberg BPC, van der Zwaag PA, Nienhuis HLA. Longitudinal analysis of serum neurofilament light chain levels as marker for neuronal damage in hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis. Amyloid 2024; 31:132-141. [PMID: 38477065 DOI: 10.1080/13506129.2024.2327342] [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: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) as biomarker of disease onset, progression and treatment effect in hereditary transthyretin (ATTRv) amyloidosis patients and TTR variant (TTRv) carriers. METHODS sNfL levels were assessed longitudinally in persistently asymptomatic TTRv carriers (N = 12), persistently asymptomatic ATTRv amyloidosis patients (defined as asymptomatic patients but with amyloid detectable in subcutaneous abdominal fat tissue) (N = 8), in TTRv carriers who developed polyneuropathy (N = 7) and in ATTRv amyloidosis patients with polyneuropathy on treatment (TTR-stabiliser (N = 20) or TTR-silencer (N = 18)). Polyneuropathy was confirmed by nerve conduction studies or quantitative sensory testing. sNfL was analysed using a single-molecule array assay. RESULTS sNfL increased over 2 years in persistently asymptomatic ATTRv amyloidosis patients, but did not change in persistently asymptomatic TTRv carriers. In all TTRv carriers who developed polyneuropathy, sNfL increased from 8.4 to 49.8 pg/mL before the onset of symptoms and before polyneuropathy could be confirmed neurophysiologically. In symptomatic ATTRv amyloidosis patients on a TTR-stabiliser, sNfL remained stable over 2 years. In patients on a TTR-silencer, sNfL decreased after 1 year of treatment. CONCLUSION sNfL is a biomarker of early neuronal damage in ATTRv amyloidosis already before the onset of polyneuropathy. Current data support the use of sNfL in screening asymptomatic TTRv carriers and in monitoring of disease progression and treatment effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milou Berends
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Amyloidosis Center of Expertise, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anne F Brunger
- Amyloidosis Center of Expertise, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Johan Bijzet
- Amyloidosis Center of Expertise, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bart-Jan Kroesen
- Amyloidosis Center of Expertise, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Gea Drost
- Amyloidosis Center of Expertise, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Fiete Lange
- Amyloidosis Center of Expertise, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Charlotte E Teunissen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sjors In 't Veld
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Reinold O B Gans
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Amyloidosis Center of Expertise, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bouke P C Hazenberg
- Amyloidosis Center of Expertise, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul A van der Zwaag
- Amyloidosis Center of Expertise, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Hans L A Nienhuis
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Amyloidosis Center of Expertise, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Tozza S, Palumbo G, Severi D, Iovino A, Spina E, Aruta F, Cassano E, Iodice R, Dubbioso R, Ruggiero L, Nolano M, Santoro L, Manganelli F. Heterogenous electrophysiological features in early stage of hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis neuropathy. Neurol Sci 2024; 45:1685-1689. [PMID: 37870643 PMCID: PMC10942904 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-07140-w] [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: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hereditary transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis (ATTRv, v for variant) is a progressive disease caused by mutations in the TTR gene, leading to sensory-motor, axonal and length-dependent neuropathy. However, some patients may show variable electrophysiological pattern. The aim of this study was to evaluate the electrophysiological features of TTR amyloid neuropathy at the time of the first nerve conduction study (NCS) to assess whether there were distinguishing features useful for early diagnosis. METHODS We retrospectively revised the first electrophysiological findings of ATTRv patients, and we categorized the neuropathy based on nerve conduction slowing, type of involved fibres and distribution pattern of PNS involvement. Cluster analysis was performed to evaluate the prevalence of neuropathy features between the early and late stage of disease, based on disease duration and disability burden assessed by NIS. RESULTS We recruited 33 patients (27 males) with mean age 63.9 ± 10.8 years, mean disease duration 2.8 ± 2.4 years and mean NIS 47.6 ± 41.8. Overall, the frequency analysis showed that the most common features of ATTRv neuropathy included the categories of axonal, sensory-motor and neuronopathic-like pattern. This electrophysiological pattern of PNS involvement was constant in patients in late stage of disease, whereas ATTRv patients in early stage of disease displayed variable electrophysiological pattern of PNS involvement. DISCUSSION Our findings demonstrated that ATTRv neuropathy may present at first NCS in a variable way, and it changes over the course of disease. Such heterogeneity makes the suspicion of ATTRv even more challenging at the time of first electrophysiological examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Tozza
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Palumbo
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Daniele Severi
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Aniello Iovino
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Emanuele Spina
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Aruta
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Emanuele Cassano
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Iodice
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Dubbioso
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Lucia Ruggiero
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Nolano
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Lucio Santoro
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Fiore Manganelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
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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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Leonardi L, Costanzo R, Forcina F, Morino S, Antonini G, Salvetti M, Luigetti M, Romano A, Primiano G, Guglielmino V, Fionda L, Garibaldi M, Lauletta A, Rossini E, Tufano L, Ceccanti M, Esposito N, Falco P, di Pietro G, Truini A, Galosi E. Quantitative sensory testing and skin biopsy findings in late-onset ATTRv presymptomatic carriers: Relationships with predicted time of disease onset (PADO). J Peripher Nerv Syst 2023; 28:390-397. [PMID: 37535421 DOI: 10.1111/jns.12586] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis polyneuropathy (ATTRv-PN) presymptomatic carriers often show preclinical abnormalities at small fiber-related diagnostic tests. However, no validated biomarker is currently available to use for presymptomatic carriers' follow-up, thus helping therapeutic decision making. Our study aimed at assessing nerve conduction study (NCS), quantitative sensory testing (QST), and skin biopsy parameters in a large cohort of late-onset ATTRv presymptomatic carriers and to evaluate whether they correlated with predicted age of disease onset (PADO). METHODS Late-onset ATTRv presymptomatic carriers were consecutively enrolled and underwent NCS, QST, and skin biopsy with intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) evaluation from a distal and a proximal site. Douleur Neuropathique-4 (DN4) and Small Fiber Neuropathy-Symptoms Inventory (SFN-SIQ) were used to assess painful and small fiber neuropathy-related symptoms. PADO and time-to-PADO (delta-PADO) were estimated for each carrier, and correlations with diagnostic test measures were analyzed. RESULTS Forty presymptomatic ATTRv subjects were enrolled. Twenty carriers (50%) had distal IENFD reduction, with a non-length-dependent distribution in 73% of cases. Eleven subjects (27.5%) had cold and/or warm detection threshold (CDT and/or WDT) abnormalities at QST. Delta-PADO positively correlated with sural sensory nerve action potential (SNAP) amplitude (r = .416, p = .004), and z-values of QST parameters like CDT (r = .314, p = .028), WDT (r = -.294, p = .034), and mechanical detection threshold (MDT; r = -.382, p = .012). Simple linear regression models showed a linear relation between delta-PADO and sural SAP, CDT, and MDT. CONCLUSIONS Our findings confirm that IENFD reduction and QST abnormalities may occur early in ATTRv presymptomatic carriers, often with a non-length-dependent pattern. However, only sural SAP amplitude and QST parameters correlated with delta-PADO, suggesting that serial combined QST and NCS evaluation could be useful in ATTRv presymptomatic carriers' follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Leonardi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Costanzo
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Forcina
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Morino
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Antonini
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Salvetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Neuromed Institute IRCCS, Pozzilli, Isernia, Italy
| | - Marco Luigetti
- UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore. Sede di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Romano
- UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Guido Primiano
- UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Guglielmino
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore. Sede di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Fionda
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Garibaldi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Lauletta
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Rossini
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Tufano
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Ceccanti
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Esposito
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Pietro Falco
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe di Pietro
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Truini
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Galosi
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Tozza S, Luigetti M, Antonini G, Mazzeo A, Severi D, Di Paolantonio A, Leonardi L, Russo M, Romano A, Forcina F, Gentile L, Nolano M, Mattia C, Manganelli F. Neuropathic pain experience in symptomatic and presymptomatic subjects carrying a transthyretin gene mutation. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1109782. [PMID: 36846120 PMCID: PMC9944934 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1109782] [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: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pain is a common symptom of hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv), however, its occurrence in late-onset ATTRv has not been investigated thoroughly. Our aim was to describe the pain experience and its impact on quality of life (QoL) in symptomatic patients and presymptomatic carriers harboring a transthyretin (TTR) gene mutation with a late-onset phenotype. Materials and methods Study participants (aged ≥18 years) were consecutively recruited from four Italian centers. Clinical disability was assessed using the Familial Amyloid Polyneuropathy (FAP) stage and Neuropathy Impairment Score (NIS). The Norfolk questionnaire evaluated QoL and the Compound Autonomic Dysfunction Test assessed autonomic involvement. Neuropathic pain was screened using the Douleur Neuropathique 4 (DN4) questionnaire, and pain intensity and its impact on daily activity were assessed using the Brief Pain Inventory severity and interference subscores. Data on the type of TTR mutation, presence of cardiomyopathy, treatment, and Body Mass Index (BMI) were collected. Results Overall, 102 subjects with TTR mutations (mean age ± SD 63.6 ± 13.5 years) were recruited, including 78 symptomatic patients (68.1 ± 10.9 years) and 24 presymptomatic carriers (49 ± 10.3 years). Pain was reported by 75.5% of all subjects, but was more frequent in symptomatic patients than in presymptomatic carriers (85.9 vs. 41.6%, respectively). Pain exhibited neuropathic features (DN4≥4) in 69.2% of symptomatic patients and in 8.3% of presymptomatic carriers. Subjects with neuropathic pain were older (p = 0.015) had worse FAP stage (p < 0.001), higher NIS scores (p < 0.001), greater autonomic involvement (p = 0.003), and a lower QoL (p < 0.001) than those without neuropathic pain. Neuropathic pain was associated with higher pain severity (p < 0.001) and had a significant negative impact on daily activities (p < 0.001) Neuropathic pain was not associated with gender, mutation type, TTR therapy, or BMI. Conclusion Approximately 70% of late-onset ATTRv patients complained of neuropathic pain (DN4≥4) that worsened as peripheral neuropathy progressed and increasingly interfered with daily activities and QoL. Notably, 8% of presymptomatic carriers complained of neuropathic pain. These results suggest that assessment of neuropathic pain may be useful to monitor disease progression and identify early manifestations of ATTRv.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Tozza
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Luigetti
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, UOC Neurologia, Rome, Italy,Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Antonini
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Mazzeo
- Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Severi
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Di Paolantonio
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy,U.O. Neurologia, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, Brescia, Italy
| | - Luca Leonardi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Russo
- Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Angela Romano
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, UOC Neurologia, Rome, Italy,Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Forcina
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Gentile
- Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Nolano
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy,Neurology Department, Skin Biopsy Laboratory, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Telese Terme, Italy
| | - Consalvo Mattia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome, Italy,Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Unit, ICOT-Polo Pontino, Latina, Italy
| | - Fiore Manganelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy,*Correspondence: Fiore Manganelli ✉
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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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Tozza S, Severi D, Palumbo G, Provitera V, Ruggiero L, Dubbioso R, Iodice R, Nolano M, Manganelli F. Quantitative Sensory Testing in Late-Onset ATTRv Presymptomatic Subjects: A Single Center Experience. Biomedicines 2022; 10:2877. [PMID: 36359398 PMCID: PMC9687694 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10112877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv) presymptomatic subjects undergo multidisciplinary evaluation to detect, as early as possible, a subclinical involvement of multisystem disease. Quantitative sensory testing (QST) that investigates and discriminates the function of C, Aδ and Aβ fibers is included as an instrumental test to monitor nerve fiber function. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of QST in the context of the multidisciplinary evaluation in late onset carriers. Methods Four-teen presymptomatic (namely carriers) were enrolled. Subjects underwent thermal [cold and warm detection threshold (CDT, WDT), cold and heat pain (CP and HP)] and tactile QST in four body sites: foot dorsum, distal lateral leg, distal thigh, hand dorsum. Results Overall, presymptomatic subject showed a significant difference in all thermal QST findings compared to the control group. All subjects had at least one altered thermal QST finding; the sites more frequently altered were foot and leg, whilst the thermal modalities which were more frequently abnormal were CDT, WDT and CP. Conclusions Our study highlights the importance of performing thermal QST in subjects carrying TTR mutation, given the high frequency of abnormal findings. Notably, performing both innocuous and painful stimulation in foot and/or leg increases the chance of detecting nerve fiber dysfunction. Moreover, the investigation of the hand may provide useful information in monitoring disease progression before the Predicted Age of Disease Onset (PADO).
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Tozza
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odonstomatology, University “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Daniele Severi
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odonstomatology, University “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Palumbo
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odonstomatology, University “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Provitera
- Neurology Department, Skin Biopsy Laboratory, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 82037 Telese Terme, Italy
| | - Lucia Ruggiero
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odonstomatology, University “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Dubbioso
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odonstomatology, University “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Iodice
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odonstomatology, University “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Nolano
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odonstomatology, University “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Neurology Department, Skin Biopsy Laboratory, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 82037 Telese Terme, Italy
| | - Fiore Manganelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odonstomatology, University “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
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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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Novel Therapies for the Treatment of Neuropathic Pain: Potential and Pitfalls. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11113002. [PMID: 35683390 PMCID: PMC9181614 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11113002] [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: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain affects more than one million people across the globe. The quality of life of people suffering from neuropathic pain has been considerably declining due to the unavailability of appropriate therapeutics. Currently, available treatment options can only treat patients symptomatically, but they are associated with severe adverse side effects and the development of tolerance over prolonged use. In the past decade, researchers were able to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in neuropathic pain; thus, continuous efforts are evident, aiming to develop novel interventions with better efficacy instead of symptomatic treatment. The current review discusses the latest interventional strategies used in the treatment and management of neuropathic pain. This review also provides insights into the present scenario of pain research, particularly various interventional techniques such as spinal cord stimulation, steroid injection, neural blockade, transcranial/epidural stimulation, deep brain stimulation, percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, neuroablative procedures, opto/chemogenetics, gene therapy, etc. In a nutshell, most of the above techniques are at preclinical stage and facing difficulty in translation to clinical studies due to the non-availability of appropriate methodologies. Therefore, continuing research on these interventional strategies may help in the development of promising novel therapies that can improve the quality of life of patients suffering from neuropathic pain.
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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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