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Gibbons C, Wang N, Rajan S, Kern D, Palma JA, Kaufmann H, Freeman R. Cutaneous α-Synuclein Signatures in Patients With Multiple System Atrophy and Parkinson Disease. Neurology 2023; 100:e1529-e1539. [PMID: 36657992 PMCID: PMC10103107 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000206772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused by the abnormal accumulation of α-synuclein in the nervous system. Clinical features include autonomic and motor dysfunction, which overlap with those of Parkinson disease (PD), particularly at early disease stages. There is an unmet need for accurate diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for MSA and, specifically, a critical need to distinguish MSA from other synucleinopathies, particularly PD. The purpose of the study was to develop a unique cutaneous pathologic signature of phosphorylated α-synuclein that could distinguish patients with MSA from patients with PD and healthy controls. METHODS We studied 31 patients with MSA and 54 patients with PD diagnosed according to current clinical consensus criteria. We also included 24 matched controls. All participants underwent neurologic examinations, autonomic testing, and skin biopsies at 3 locations. The density of intraepidermal, sudomotor, and pilomotor nerve fibers was measured. The deposition of phosphorylated α-synuclein was quantified. Results were compared with clinical rating assessments and autonomic function test results. RESULTS Patients with PD had reduced nerve fiber densities compared with patients with MSA (p < 0.05, all fiber types). All patients with MSA and 51/54 with PD had evidence of phosphorylated α-synuclein in at least one skin biopsy. No phosphorylated α-synuclein was detected in controls. Patients with MSA had greater phosphorylated α-synuclein deposition (p < 0.0001) and more widespread peripheral distribution (p < 0.0001) than patients with PD. These results provided >90% sensitivity and specificity in distinguishing between the 2 disorders. DISCUSSION α-synuclein is present in the peripheral autonomic nerves of patients with MSA and when combined with synuclein distribution accurately distinguishes MSA from PD. CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE This study provides Class II evidence that measurement of phosphorylated α-synuclein in skin biopsies can differentiate patients with MSA from those with PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Gibbons
- From the Department of Neurology (C.G., N.W., R.F.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA; Department of Pathology (S.R.), NIH, Bethesda, MD; Department of Neurology (D.K.), University of Colorado, Aurora, CO; and Department of Neurology (J.-A.P., H.K.), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Ningshan Wang
- From the Department of Neurology (C.G., N.W., R.F.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA; Department of Pathology (S.R.), NIH, Bethesda, MD; Department of Neurology (D.K.), University of Colorado, Aurora, CO; and Department of Neurology (J.-A.P., H.K.), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Sharika Rajan
- From the Department of Neurology (C.G., N.W., R.F.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA; Department of Pathology (S.R.), NIH, Bethesda, MD; Department of Neurology (D.K.), University of Colorado, Aurora, CO; and Department of Neurology (J.-A.P., H.K.), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Drew Kern
- From the Department of Neurology (C.G., N.W., R.F.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA; Department of Pathology (S.R.), NIH, Bethesda, MD; Department of Neurology (D.K.), University of Colorado, Aurora, CO; and Department of Neurology (J.-A.P., H.K.), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Jose-Alberto Palma
- From the Department of Neurology (C.G., N.W., R.F.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA; Department of Pathology (S.R.), NIH, Bethesda, MD; Department of Neurology (D.K.), University of Colorado, Aurora, CO; and Department of Neurology (J.-A.P., H.K.), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Horacio Kaufmann
- From the Department of Neurology (C.G., N.W., R.F.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA; Department of Pathology (S.R.), NIH, Bethesda, MD; Department of Neurology (D.K.), University of Colorado, Aurora, CO; and Department of Neurology (J.-A.P., H.K.), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Roy Freeman
- From the Department of Neurology (C.G., N.W., R.F.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA; Department of Pathology (S.R.), NIH, Bethesda, MD; Department of Neurology (D.K.), University of Colorado, Aurora, CO; and Department of Neurology (J.-A.P., H.K.), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY.
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Evidente VGH, Evidente DH, Ortega SC, Levine TD, Freeman R, Gibbons C. X-Linked Dystonia-Parkinsonism ("Lubag") May Present with Peripheral Synucleinopathy. Mov Disord 2021; 37:130-136. [PMID: 34582053 DOI: 10.1002/mds.28801] [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: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND X-linked dystonia parkinsonism (XDP) or "Lubag" is a genetic dystonia syndrome observed among Filipinos that can present with levodopa-responsive parkinsonism and abnormal dopamine transporter (DAT) imaging. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to describe the results of skin biopsies for phosphorylated α-synuclein (P-SYN) in XDP. METHOD This study used the retrospective chart review. RESULTS We report 6 patients who carried the XDP gene mutation with DAT imaging and skin biopsies to detect P-SYN. Five had segmental or multifocal dystonia and parkinsonism: 4 were levodopa-responsive and 1 non-levodopa-responsive. One patient was asymptomatic but had mild bradykinesia. Cutaneous P-SYN and abnormal DAT scans were noted in the 4 levodopa-responsive patients and 1 asymptomatic patient. CONCLUSION We report for the first time the presence of cutaneous P-SYN in XDP. Our findings suggest that XDP may be a hitherto-undescribed synucleinopathy or that some XDP patients may have concurrent Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Susan C Ortega
- Movement Disorders Center of Arizona, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
| | | | - Roy Freeman
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - ChristopherH Gibbons
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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3
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Jin HY, Moon SS, Calcutt NA. Lost in Translation? Measuring Diabetic Neuropathy in Humans and Animals. Diabetes Metab J 2021; 45:27-42. [PMID: 33307618 PMCID: PMC7850880 DOI: 10.4093/dmj.2020.0216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The worldwide diabetes epidemic is estimated to currently afflict almost 500 million persons. Long-term diabetes damages multiple organ systems with the blood vessels, eyes, kidneys and nervous systems being particularly vulnerable. These complications of diabetes reduce lifespan, impede quality of life and impose a huge social and economic burden on both the individual and society. Peripheral neuropathy is a debilitating complication that will impact over half of all persons with diabetes. There is no treatment for diabetic neuropathy and a disturbingly long history of therapeutic approaches showing promise in preclinical studies but failing to translate to the clinic. These failures have prompted re-examination of both the animal models and clinical trial design. This review focuses on the functional and structural parameters used as indices of peripheral neuropathy in preclinical and clinical studies and the extent to which they share a common pathogenesis and presentation. Nerve conduction studies in large myelinated fibers have long been the mainstay of preclinical efficacy screening programs and clinical trials, supplemented by quantitative sensory tests. However, a more refined approach is emerging that incorporates measures of small fiber density in the skin and cornea alongside these traditional assays at both preclinical and clinical phases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heung Yong Jin
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju,
USA
| | - Seong-Su Moon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju,
USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Nazareth General Hospital, Daegu,
Korea,
USA
| | - Nigel A. Calcutt
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA,
USA
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4
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Eckermann M, Peruzzi N, Frohn J, Bech M, Englund E, Veress B, Salditt T, Dahlin LB, Ohlsson B. 3d phase-contrast nanotomography of unstained human skin biopsies may identify morphological differences in the dermis and epidermis between subjects. Skin Res Technol 2020; 27:316-323. [PMID: 33022848 PMCID: PMC8246570 DOI: 10.1111/srt.12974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Enteric neuropathy is described in most patients with gastrointestinal dysmotility and may be found together with reduced intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD). The aim of this pilot study was to assess whether three-dimensional (3d) imaging of skin biopsies could be used to examine various tissue components in patients with gastrointestinal dysmotility. MATERIAL AND METHODS Four dysmotility patients of different etiology and two healthy volunteers were included. From each subject, two 3-mm punch skin biopsies were stained with antibodies against protein gene product 9.5 or evaluated as a whole with two X-ray phase-contrast computed tomography (CT) setups, a laboratory µCT setup and a dedicated synchrotron radiation nanoCT end-station. RESULTS Two patients had reduced IENFD, and two normal IENFD, compared with controls. µCT and X-ray phase-contrast holographic nanotomography scanned whole tissue specimens, with optional high-resolution scans revealing delicate structures, without differentiation of various fibers and cells. Irregular architecture of dermal fibers was observed in the patient with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and the patient with idiopathic dysmotility showed an abundance of mesenchymal ground substance. CONCLUSIONS 3d phase-contrast tomographic imaging may be useful to illustrate traits of connective tissue dysfunction in various organs and to demonstrate whether disorganized dermal fibers could explain organ dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Eckermann
- Institute for X-Ray Physics, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Niccolò Peruzzi
- Medical Radiation Physics, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jasper Frohn
- Institute for X-Ray Physics, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Martin Bech
- Medical Radiation Physics, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Elisabet Englund
- Division of Oncology and Pathology, Skane University Hospital, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Béla Veress
- Department of Pathology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Tim Salditt
- Institute for X-Ray Physics, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Lars B Dahlin
- Department of Translational Medicine - Hand Surgery, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden.,Department of Hand Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Bodil Ohlsson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Skåne University Hospital, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
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5
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Wang N, Garcia J, Freeman R, Gibbons CH. Phosphorylated Alpha-Synuclein Within Cutaneous Autonomic Nerves of Patients With Parkinson's Disease: The Implications of Sample Thickness on Results. J Histochem Cytochem 2020; 68:669-678. [PMID: 32921251 DOI: 10.1369/0022155420960250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The detection of cutaneous phosphorylated alpha-synuclein (P-syn) in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) has ranged from 30% to 100% across different studies. We hypothesize that part of the variability in P-syn detection is due to methodological differences using sections of different tissue thickness. Three skin biopsies were obtained from 29 individuals with PD and 21 controls. Tissues were cut into 10-, 20-, and 50-µm-thick sections and double-stained with protein gene product (PGP) 9.5 and P-syn. We quantified the deposition of P-syn with and without PGP 9.5 in sweat glands, pilomotor muscle, and blood vessels using confocal digital images of autonomic structures. Overall, the P-syn-positive rates with PGP 9.5 colocalization in subjects with PD were 100% using 50 µm sections, 90% using 20 µm sections, and 73% using 10 µm sections with 100% specificity. (No P-syn was detected within control subjects.) Without PGP 9.5, colocalization of the P-syn-positive rates was 100% for all samples, but specificity dropped below 70%. In this study, double-immunostained 50 µm skin biopsy tissue sections are superior to 20 and 10 µm tissue sections at detecting P-syn in subjects with PD. The increased sensitivity is likely secondary to a combination of greater volume of tissue analyzed and improved visualization of nerve fiber architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningshan Wang
- Center for Autonomic and Peripheral Nerve Disorders, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Jennifer Garcia
- Center for Autonomic and Peripheral Nerve Disorders, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Roy Freeman
- Center for Autonomic and Peripheral Nerve Disorders, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Christopher H Gibbons
- Center for Autonomic and Peripheral Nerve Disorders, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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6
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Mazzetti S, Basellini MJ, Ferri V, Cassani E, Cereda E, Paolini M, Calogero AM, Bolliri C, De Leonardis M, Sacilotto G, Cilia R, Cappelletti G, Pezzoli G. α-Synuclein oligomers in skin biopsy of idiopathic and monozygotic twin patients with Parkinson's disease. Brain 2020; 143:920-931. [PMID: 32025699 PMCID: PMC7089656 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awaa008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
A variety of cellular processes, including vesicle clustering in the presynaptic compartment, are impaired in Parkinson’s disease and have been closely associated with α-synuclein oligomerization. Emerging evidence proves the existence of α-synuclein-related pathology in the peripheral nervous system, even though the presence of α-synuclein oligomers in situ in living patients remains poorly investigated. In this case-control study, we show previously undetected α-synuclein oligomers within synaptic terminals of autonomic fibres in skin biopsies by means of the proximity ligation assay and propose a procedure for their quantification (proximity ligation assay score). Our study revealed a significant increase in α-synuclein oligomers in consecutive patients with Parkinson’s disease compared to consecutive healthy controls (P < 0.001). Proximity ligation assay score (threshold value > 96 using receiver operating characteristic) was found to have good sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value (82%, 86% and 89%, respectively). Furthermore, to disclose the role of putative genetic predisposition in Parkinson’s disease aetiology, we evaluated the differential accumulation of oligomers in a unique cohort of 19 monozygotic twins discordant for Parkinson’s disease. The significant difference between patients and healthy subjects was confirmed in twins. Intriguingly, although no difference in median values was detected between consecutive healthy controls and healthy twins, the prevalence of healthy subjects positive for proximity ligation assay score was significantly greater in twins than in the consecutive cohort (47% versus 14%, P = 0.019). This suggests that genetic predisposition is important, but not sufficient, in the aetiology of the disease and strengthens the contribution of environmental factors. In conclusion, our data provide evidence that α-synuclein oligomers accumulate within synaptic terminals of autonomic fibres of the skin in Parkinson’s disease for the first time. This finding endorses the hypothesis that α-synuclein oligomers could be used as a reliable diagnostic biomarker for Parkinson’s disease. It also offers novel insights into the physiological and pathological roles of α-synuclein in the peripheral nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samanta Mazzetti
- Department of Biosciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Fondazione Grigioni per il Morbo di Parkinson, Milan, Italy
| | - Milo J Basellini
- Department of Biosciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Fondazione Grigioni per il Morbo di Parkinson, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Ferri
- Fondazione Grigioni per il Morbo di Parkinson, Milan, Italy.,Parkinson Institute, ASST 'Gaetano Pini-CTO', Milan, Italy
| | - Erica Cassani
- Fondazione Grigioni per il Morbo di Parkinson, Milan, Italy.,Parkinson Institute, ASST 'Gaetano Pini-CTO', Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuele Cereda
- Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Matilde Paolini
- Department of Biosciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra M Calogero
- Department of Biosciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Fondazione Grigioni per il Morbo di Parkinson, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlotta Bolliri
- Fondazione Grigioni per il Morbo di Parkinson, Milan, Italy.,Parkinson Institute, ASST 'Gaetano Pini-CTO', Milan, Italy
| | - Mara De Leonardis
- Department of Biosciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Roberto Cilia
- Parkinson Institute, ASST 'Gaetano Pini-CTO', Milan, Italy
| | - Graziella Cappelletti
- Department of Biosciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianni Pezzoli
- Fondazione Grigioni per il Morbo di Parkinson, Milan, Italy.,Parkinson Institute, ASST 'Gaetano Pini-CTO', Milan, Italy
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7
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Zitser J, Gibbons C, Miglis MG. The role of tissue biopsy as a biomarker in REM sleep behavior disorder. Sleep Med Rev 2020; 51:101283. [PMID: 32187564 DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2020.101283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Patients with idiopathic REM-sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) are at substantial risk of progressive neurodegenerative disease of α-synuclein pathology. Longitudinal studies have demonstrated that abnormal α-synuclein deposition occurs early in the course of disease and may precede the appearance of motor symptoms by several decades. This provides rationale for the use of a reliable biomarker to both follow disease progression and to assess treatment response, once disease-modifying treatments become available. Tissue α-synuclein has emerged as a promising candidate, however the utility of α-synuclein detection in tissues accessible to biopsy in iRBD remains unclear. This article summarizes the current literature on the role of tissue biopsy in iRBD, with specific focus on its potential role as a biomarker of disease progression and its role in future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Zitser
- Department of Neurology & Neurological Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA; Movement Disorders Unit, Department of Neurology, Tel Aviv Sourazky Medical Center, Affiliate of Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel
| | - Christopher Gibbons
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mitchell G Miglis
- Department of Neurology & Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
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8
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Donadio V, Incensi A, Vacchiano V, Infante R, Magnani M, Liguori R. The autonomic innervation of hairy skin in humans: an in vivo confocal study. Sci Rep 2019; 9:16982. [PMID: 31740757 PMCID: PMC6861237 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53684-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The autonomic innervation of the skin includes different subsets of adrenergic and cholinergic fibers both in humans and animals. The corresponding chemical code is complex and often difficult to ascertain. Accordingly, a detailed histochemical description of skin autonomic fiber subtypes is lacking in humans. To characterize skin autonomic nerve subtypes may help to better understand the selective damage of specific skin autonomic fibers affecting human diseases such as the adrenergic fibers directed to skin vessels in Parkinson’s disease or the cholinergic sudomotor fibers in Ross Syndrome. The present study aimed at characterizing subtypes of autonomic fibers in relation to their target organs by means of an immunofluorescent technique and confocal microscopy. We studied 8 healthy subjects (5 males and 3 females) aged 45 ± 2 (mean ± SE) years without predisposing causes for peripheral neuropathy or autonomic disorders. They underwent skin biopsy from proximal (thigh) and distal (leg) hairy skin. A combination of adrenergic (i.e. tyrosine-hydroxylase- TH and dopamine beta-hydroxylase- DbH) and cholinergic (vesicular acetylcholine transporter- VACHT) autonomic markers and neuropeptidergic (i.e. neuropeptide Y- NPY, calcitonin gene-related peptide- CGRP, substance P- SP, and vasoactive intestinal peptide- VIP) markers were used to characterize skin autonomic fibers. The analysed skin autonomic structures included: 58 sweat glands, 91 skin arterioles and 47 arrector pili muscles. Our results showed that all skin structures presented a sympathetic adrenergic but also cholinergic innervation although in different proportions. Sympathetic adrenergic fibers were particularly abundant around arterioles and arrector pili muscles whereas sympathetic cholinergic fibers were mainly found around sweat glands. Neuropeptides were differently expressed in sympathetic fibers: NPY were found in sympathetic adrenergic fibers around skin arterioles and very seldom sweat glands but not in adrenergic fibers of arrector pili muscles. By contrast CGRP, SP and VIP were expressed in sympathetic cholinergic fibers. Cholinergic fibers expressing CGRP, SP or VIP without TH or DbH staining were found in arterioles and arrector pili muscles and they likely represent parasympathetic fibers. In addition, all skin structures contained a small subset of neuropeptidergic fibers devoid of adrenergic and cholinergic markers with a likely sensory function. No major differences were found between males and females and proximal and distal sites. In summary hairy skin contains sympathetic adrenergic and cholinergic fibers differently distributed around skin structures with a specific distribution of neuropeptides. The autonomic skin innervation also contains a small amount of fibers, likely to be parasympathetic and sensory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Donadio
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Alex Incensi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Bologna, Italy
| | - Veria Vacchiano
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Rossella Infante
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Martina Magnani
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Bologna, Italy
| | - Rocco Liguori
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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9
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Glatte P, Buchmann SJ, Hijazi MM, Illigens BMW, Siepmann T. Architecture of the Cutaneous Autonomic Nervous System. Front Neurol 2019; 10:970. [PMID: 31551921 PMCID: PMC6746903 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The human skin is a highly specialized organ for receiving sensory information but also to preserve the body's homeostasis. These functions are mediated by cutaneous small nerve fibers which display a complex anatomical architecture and are commonly classified into cutaneous A-beta, A-delta and C-fibers based on their diameter, myelinization, and velocity of conduction of action potentials. Knowledge on structure and function of these nerve fibers is relevant as they are selectively targeted by various autonomic neuropathies such as diabetic neuropathy or Parkinson's disease. Functional integrity of autonomic skin nerve fibers can be assessed by quantitative analysis of cutaneous responses to local pharmacological induction of axon reflex responses which result in dilation of cutaneous vessels, sweating, or piloerection depending on the agent used to stimulate this neurogenic response. Sensory fibers can be assessed using quantitative sensory test. Complementing these functional assessments, immunohistochemical staining of superficial skin biopsies allow analysis of structural integrity of cutaneous nerve fibers, a technique which has gained attention due to its capacity of detecting pathogenic depositions of alpha-synuclein in patients with Parkinson's disease. Here, we reviewed the current literature on the anatomy and functional pathways of the cutaneous autonomic nervous system as well as diagnostic techniques to assess its functional and structural integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Glatte
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sylvia J Buchmann
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Mido Max Hijazi
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Ben Min-Woo Illigens
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Timo Siepmann
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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10
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Minota K, Schmeichel AM, Gehrking JA, Mandrekar JN, Low PA, Singer W. Refined Quantitation of Sweat Gland Innervation. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2019; 78:453-459. [PMID: 30861073 PMCID: PMC6467193 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/nlz015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin biopsies have gained increasing popularity as a tool to evaluate disorders affecting small nerve fibers. While reports on sweat gland nerve fiber density (SGNFD) to quantitate sudomotor innervation have been promising, methodologies vary significantly. Although conventional stereology is commonly used, no standard technique has been established. We sought to develop an accurate and reproducible technique to quantify SGNFD. Skin punch biopsies from healthy individuals were cut and stained. Images of sweat glands (SGs) were acquired using confocal and widefield microscopes, and optimized using deconvolution. Nerve fibers were reconstructed and nerve fiber length (NFL) was quantified using three-dimensional (3D) automated software. SGNFD was obtained by dividing NFL by SG volume. SGNFD was also assessed using stereology for comparison. Ninety-two SGs from 10 healthy subjects were analyzed by independent observers. Using confocal microscopy, the software reliably traced nerve fibers. In contrast, rendering of nerve fibers was inferior using widefield microscopy. Interobserver reliability was suboptimal using widefield images compared to confocal (ICC = 0.82 vs ICC = 0.98). Correlation between 3D-reconstruction and stereology was poor (ICC = 0.38). The newly developed technique of SGNFD quantitation using 3D reconstruction of SG innervation with confocal microscopy reliably traces nerve fibers, shows outstanding reproducibility, is almost completely unbiased, and superior to conventional stereology methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla Minota
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (KM, AMS, JAG, JNM, PAL, WS)
| | - Ann M Schmeichel
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (KM, AMS, JAG, JNM, PAL, WS)
| | - Jade A Gehrking
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (KM, AMS, JAG, JNM, PAL, WS)
| | - Jay N Mandrekar
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (KM, AMS, JAG, JNM, PAL, WS)
| | - Phillip A Low
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (KM, AMS, JAG, JNM, PAL, WS)
| | - Wolfgang Singer
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (KM, AMS, JAG, JNM, PAL, WS)
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11
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Minota K, Coon EA, Benarroch EE. Neurologic aspects of sweating and its disorders. Neurology 2019; 92:999-1005. [DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000007540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
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12
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Morikawa S, Iribar H, Gutiérrez-Rivera A, Ezaki T, Izeta A. Pericytes in Cutaneous Wound Healing. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1147:1-63. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-16908-4_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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13
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Low DA, Bailey TG, Timothy Cable N, Jones H. Thermoregulatory responses to combined moderate heat stress and hypoxia. Microcirculation 2016; 23:487-494. [PMID: 27418172 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine the cutaneous vascular and sudomotor responses to combined moderate passive heat stress and normobaric hypoxia. METHOD Thirteen healthy young males, dressed in a water-perfused suit, underwent passive heating (Δcore temperature ~0.7°C) twice (Normoxia; 20.9% O2 and Hypoxia; 13% O2 ). Chest and forearm skin blood flow (SkBF; laser-Doppler flux) and sweat rate (SR; capacitance hygrometry), core (intestinal pill), and skin temperatures, were recorded. RESULTS Hypoxia reduced baseline oxygen saturation (98±1 vs 89±6%, P<.001) and elevated chest (P=.03) and forearm SkBF (P=.03), and HR (64±9 vs 69±8 beats.min-1 , P<.01). During heating, mean body temperature (T¯BODY) thresholds for SkBF (P=.41) and SR (P=.28) elevations were not different between trials. The SkBF: T¯BODY linear sensitivity during the initial phase of heating was lower at the chest (P=.035) but not different at the forearm (P=.17) during hypoxia. With increasing levels of heating chest SkBF was not different (P=.55) but forearm SkBF was lower (P<.01) during hypoxia. Chest (P=.85) and forearm (P=.79) SR: T¯BODY linear sensitivities were not different between trials. CONCLUSION While sudomotor responses and the initiation of cutaneous blood flow elevations are unaffected, hypoxia differentially effects regional SkBF responses during moderate passive heating.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Low
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Tom G Bailey
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Nigel Timothy Cable
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK.,Aspire Academy for Sports Excellence, Doha, Qatar
| | - Helen Jones
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
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14
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Gibbons CH, Garcia J, Wang N, Shih LC, Freeman R. The diagnostic discrimination of cutaneous α-synuclein deposition in Parkinson disease. Neurology 2016; 87:505-12. [PMID: 27385742 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000002919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2015] [Accepted: 04/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the diagnostic discrimination of cutaneous α-synuclein deposition in individuals with Parkinson disease (PD) with and without autonomic dysfunction on autonomic testing, in early and late stages of the disease, and of short and long duration. METHODS Twenty-eight participants with PD and 23 control participants were studied by skin biopsies at multiple sites, autonomic function testing, and disease-specific scales. RESULTS Skin biopsies provide >90% sensitivity and >90% specificity to distinguish PD from control participants across all biopsies sites with quantification of either pilomotor or sudomotor α-synuclein deposition. All individuals with PD have significantly higher cutaneous α-synuclein deposition than control participants, even those individuals with PD and no evidence of autonomic dysfunction. Deposition of α-synuclein is most prominent in sympathetic adrenergic nerve fibers innervating the arrector pili muscles, but is also present in sudomotor (sympathetic cholinergic) nerve fibers. α-Synuclein is present even in the early stages of disease and disease of short duration. α-Synuclein ratios were higher in individuals with autonomic failure, with more advanced stages of disease and disease of longer duration. CONCLUSIONS The α-synuclein ratio provides a sensitive and specific diagnostic biomarker of PD even in patients without autonomic failure. CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE This study provides Class III evidence that cutaneous α-synuclein deposition accurately identifies patients with PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher H Gibbons
- From the Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
| | - Jennifer Garcia
- From the Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ningshan Wang
- From the Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ludy C Shih
- From the Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Roy Freeman
- From the Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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15
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Vinik AI, Casellini C, Névoret ML. Alternative Quantitative Tools in the Assessment of Diabetic Peripheral and Autonomic Neuropathy. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2016; 127:235-85. [PMID: 27133153 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2016.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Here we review some seldom-discussed presentations of diabetic neuropathy, including large fiber dysfunction and peripheral autonomic dysfunction, emphasizing the impact of sympathetic/parasympathetic imbalance. Diabetic neuropathy is the most common complication of diabetes and contributes additional risks in the aging adult. Loss of sensory perception, loss of muscle strength, and ataxia or incoordination lead to a risk of falling that is 17-fold greater in the older diabetic compared to their young nondiabetic counterparts. A fall is accompanied by lacerations, tears, fractures, and worst of all, traumatic brain injury, from which more than 60% do not recover. Autonomic neuropathy has been hailed as the "Prophet of Doom" for good reason. It is conducive to increased risk of myocardial infarction and sudden death. An imbalance in the autonomic nervous system occurs early in the evolution of diabetes, at a stage when active intervention can abrogate the otherwise relentless progression. In addition to hypotension, many newly recognized syndromes can be attributed to cardiac autonomic neuropathy such as orthostatic tachycardia and bradycardia. Ultimately, this constellation of features of neuropathy conspire to impede activities of daily living, especially in the patient with pain, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. The resulting reduction in quality of life may worsen prognosis and should be routinely evaluated and addressed. Early neuropathy detection can only be achieved by assessment of both large and small- nerve fibers. New noninvasive sudomotor function technologies may play an increasing role in identifying early peripheral and autonomic neuropathy, allowing rapid intervention and potentially reversal of small-fiber loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- A I Vinik
- Eastern Virginia Medical School, Strelitz Diabetes and Neuroendocrine Center, Norfolk, VA, United States.
| | - C Casellini
- Eastern Virginia Medical School, Strelitz Diabetes and Neuroendocrine Center, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - M-L Névoret
- Impeto Medical Inc., San Diego, CA, United States
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16
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Siepmann T, Penzlin AI, Frenz E, Barlinn K, Weidner K, Ziemssen T, Reichmann H, Illigens BMW. [Sensory and autonomic small fiber neuropathy]. MMW Fortschr Med 2015; 157 Spec No 2:60-4; quiz 65. [PMID: 26953479 DOI: 10.1007/s15006-015-3300-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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17
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Wong R, Geyer S, Weninger W, Guimberteau JC, Wong JK. The dynamic anatomy and patterning of skin. Exp Dermatol 2015; 25:92-8. [PMID: 26284579 DOI: 10.1111/exd.12832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The skin is often viewed as a static barrier that protects the body from the outside world. Emphasis on studying the skin's architecture and biomechanics in the context of restoring skin movement and function is often ignored. It is fundamentally important that if skin is to be modelled or developed, we do not only focus on the biology of skin but also aim to understand its mechanical properties and structure in living dynamic tissue. In this review, we describe the architecture of skin and patterning seen in skin as viewed from a surgical perspective and highlight aspects of the microanatomy that have never fully been realized and provide evidence or concepts that support the importance of studying living skin's dynamic behaviour. We highlight how the structure of the skin has evolved to allow the body dynamic form and function, and how injury, disease or ageing results in a dramatic changes to the microarchitecture and changes physical characteristics of skin. Therefore, appreciating the dynamic microanatomy of skin from the deep fascia through to the skin surface is vitally important from a dermatological and surgical perspective. This focus provides an alternative perspective and approach to addressing skin pathologies and skin ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Wong
- Plastic Surgery Research, Centre of Dermatology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Stefan Geyer
- Center for Anatomy & Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Weninger
- Center for Anatomy & Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jean-Claude Guimberteau
- De la Main et Plastique Reconstructice, Institut Aquitain de la Main Bordeaux, Pessac, France
| | - Jason K Wong
- Plastic Surgery Research, Centre of Dermatology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Vinik AI, Nevoret ML, Casellini C. The New Age of Sudomotor Function Testing: A Sensitive and Specific Biomarker for Diagnosis, Estimation of Severity, Monitoring Progression, and Regression in Response to Intervention. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2015; 6:94. [PMID: 26124748 PMCID: PMC4463960 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2015.00094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 05/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Sudorimetry technology has evolved dramatically, as a rapid, non-invasive, robust, and accurate biomarker for small fibers that can easily be integrated into clinical practice. Though skin biopsy with quantitation of intraepidermal nerve fiber density is still currently recognized as the gold standard, sudorimetry may yield diagnostic information not only on autonomic dysfunction but also enhance the assessment of the small somatosensory nerves, disease detection, progression, and response to therapy. Sudorimetry can be assessed using Sudoscan™, which measures electrochemical skin conductance (ESC) of hands and feet. It is based on different electrochemical principles (reverse iontophoresis and chronoamperometry) to measure sudomotor function than prior technologies, affording it a much more practical and precise performance profile for routine clinical use with potential as a research tool. Small nerve fiber dysfunction has been found to occur early in metabolic syndrome and diabetes and may also be the only neurological manifestation in small fiber neuropathies, beneath the detection limits of traditional nerve function tests. Test results are robust, accomplished within minutes, require little technical training and no calculations, since established norms have been provided for the effects of age, gender, and ethnicity. Sudomotor testing has been greatly under-utilized in the past, restricted to specialized centers capable of handling the technically demanding and expensive technology. Yet, evaluation of autonomic and somatic nerve function has been shown to be one of the best estimates of cardiovascular risk. Evaluation of sweating has the appeal of quantifiable non-invasive determination of the integrity of the peripheral autonomic nervous system, and can now be accomplished rapidly at point of care clinics with the determination of ESC, allowing intervention for morbid complications prior to permanent structural nerve damage. We review here sudomotor function testing technology, the research evidence accumulated supporting the clinical utility of measuring ESC, the medical applications of sudorimetry now available to physicians with this device, and clinical vignettes illustrating its use in the clinical decision-making process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron I. Vinik
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Strelitz Diabetes and Neuroendocrine Center, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | | | - Carolina Casellini
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Strelitz Diabetes and Neuroendocrine Center, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
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Kopishinskaya SV, Gustov AV, Kolchanova TV. [Immunohistochemical examination of skin biopsy specimens with calculation of C fibers in the diagnosis of polyneuropathy]. Arkh Patol 2015; 77:43-49. [PMID: 26027400 DOI: 10.17116/patol201577243-49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The paper discusses the anatomy of innervation of the skin, the epidermis and dermis in particular, which are related to pain, the markers of skin nerves and cells. It gives data on the diagnosis of fine unmyelinated fibers, by immunohistochemically examining skin biopsy specimens. The paper also describes the morphometry of skin nerves: intraepidermal nerve fibers, dermal nerve fibers, and autonomic nerve fibers. It discusses whether a skin biopsy specimen may be used to diagnose polyneuropathies of different etiology: diabetic, immune, HIV-related, and hereditary ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- S V Kopishinskaya
- Nizhny Novgorod State Medical Academy, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
| | - A V Gustov
- Nizhny Novgorod State Medical Academy, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
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20
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Chiang MC, Tseng MT, Pan CL, Chao CC, Hsieh ST. Progress in the treatment of small fiber peripheral neuropathy. Expert Rev Neurother 2015; 15:305-13. [PMID: 25664678 DOI: 10.1586/14737175.2015.1013097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Small fiber neuropathy is a syndrome of diverse disease etiology because of multiple pathophysiologic mechanisms with major presentations of neuropathic pain and autonomic symptoms. Over the past decade, there has been substantial progress in the treatments for neuropathic pain, dysautonomia and disease-modifying strategy. In particular, anticonvulsants and antidepressants alleviate neuropathic pain based on randomized clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Chang Chiang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
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