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Galosi E, Pirone C, Ceccarelli F, Esposito N, Falco P, Leopizzi M, Di Maio V, Tramontana L, De Stefano G, Di Pietro G, Di Stefano G, Garufi C, Leone C, Natalucci F, Orefice V, Alessandri C, Spinelli FR, Truini A, Conti F. Clinical, histologic, and immunologic signatures of Small Fiber Neuropathy in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. J Peripher Nerv Syst 2024; 29:315-328. [PMID: 38981675 DOI: 10.1111/jns.12644] [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: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) often causes damage to small nerve fibers, leading to distressing painful and autonomic symptoms. Despite this, Small Fiber Neuropathy (SFN) remains an underrecognized complication for SLE patients. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to assess SFN in patients with SLE and to explore its correlations with immunologic disease features and clinical manifestations. METHODS We recruited 50 SLE patients (1 male to 12.5 females, aged 20-80 years) reporting painful disturbances. We conducted a comprehensive clinical and neurophysiological evaluation, using Nerve Conduction Studies and Quantitative Sensory Testing. Additionally, we carried out an extensive laboratory assessment of disease-related serological parameters. We also performed a thorough skin biopsy analysis, investigating somatic and autonomic innervation while detecting complement and inflammatory cell infiltrates within the skin. RESULTS Out of 50 patients, 19 were diagnosed with SFN, primarily characterized by a non-length-dependent distribution; 7 had a mixed neuropathy, with both large and small fiber involvement. Patients with SFN were younger than patients with a mixed neuropathy (p = .0143); furthermore, they were more likely to have a history of hypocomplementemia (p = .0058) and to be treated with cyclosporine A (p = .0053) compared to patients without neuropathy. However, there were no significant differences in painful and autonomic symptoms between patients with and without SFN. DISCUSSION This study highlights the relevant frequency of SFN with a non-length-dependent distribution among SLE patients experiencing painful symptoms. Indeed, SFN emerges as an early manifestation of SLE-related neuropathy and is closely associated with hypocomplementemia, suggesting a potential pathogenic role of the complement system. Moreover, SFN may be influenced by disease-modifying therapies. However, the precise role of SFN in shaping painful and autonomic symptoms in patients with SLE remains to be fully elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Galosi
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carmelo Pirone
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche, Internistiche, Anestesiologiche e Cardiovascolari, Lupus Clinic, Rheumatology, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Fulvia Ceccarelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche, Internistiche, Anestesiologiche e Cardiovascolari, Lupus Clinic, Rheumatology, Sapienza Università di Roma, 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
| | - Martina Leopizzi
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Valeria Di Maio
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Tramontana
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Di Pietro
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Di Stefano
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Garufi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche, Internistiche, Anestesiologiche e Cardiovascolari, Lupus Clinic, Rheumatology, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Leone
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Natalucci
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche, Internistiche, Anestesiologiche e Cardiovascolari, Lupus Clinic, Rheumatology, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Orefice
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche, Internistiche, Anestesiologiche e Cardiovascolari, Lupus Clinic, Rheumatology, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristiano Alessandri
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche, Internistiche, Anestesiologiche e Cardiovascolari, Lupus Clinic, Rheumatology, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Romana Spinelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche, Internistiche, Anestesiologiche e Cardiovascolari, Lupus Clinic, Rheumatology, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Truini
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Conti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche, Internistiche, Anestesiologiche e Cardiovascolari, Lupus Clinic, Rheumatology, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
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Singaram S, Ramakrishnan K, Selvam J, Senthil M, Narayanamurthy V. Sweat gland morphology and physiology in diabetes, neuropathy, and nephropathy: a review. Arch Physiol Biochem 2024; 130:437-451. [PMID: 36063413 DOI: 10.1080/13813455.2022.2114499] [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: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Context: Sweat glands (SGs) play a vital role in thermal regulation. The function and structure are altered during the different pathological conditions.Objective: These alterations are studied through three techniques: biopsy, sweat analytes and electrical activity of SG.Methods: The morphological study of SG through biopsy and various techniques involved in quantifying sweat analytes is focussed on here. Electrical activities of SG in diabetes, neuropathy and nephropathy cases are also discussed, highlighting their limitations and future scope.Results and Conclusion: The result of this review identified three areas of the knowledge gap. The first is wearable sensors to correlate pathological conditions. Secondly, there is no device to look for its structure and quantify its associated function. Finally, therapeutic applications of SG are explored, especially for renal failure. With these aspects, this paper provides information collection and correlates SG with pathologies related to diabetes. Hence this could help researchers develop suitable technologies for the gaps identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudha Singaram
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kalpana Ramakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jayashree Selvam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mallika Senthil
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Vigneswaran Narayanamurthy
- Faculty of Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technology, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Melaka, Malaysia
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Kurachi T, Ishimaru H, Tadakuma R, Okaue M, Koda A, Ueda Y, Doi T. Mucopolysaccharide polysulfate increases local skin blood volume through nitric oxide production. J Dermatol Sci 2024; 114:133-140. [PMID: 38834380 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2024.05.001] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mucopolysaccharide polysulfate (MPS) is widely used as an active ingredient in topical preparations for the treatment of asteatosis and blood flow disorders. Although topical MPS products can increase cutaneous blood flow (CBF), the underlying mechanism remains unclear. OBJECTIVE In this study, we aimed to elucidate how MPS increases CBF. We investigated the association of nitric oxide (NO), a powerful mediator associated with increased local blood volume, with the blood flow-accelerating action of MPS in mice. In addition, we verified the effects of MPS on NO production in different skin cell types, such as keratinocytes (KCs), endothelial cells (ECs), and dermal fibroblasts (DFs). METHODS We used raster-scanning optoacoustic imaging mesoscopy to observe in vivo changes in the skin blood volume. NO production was determined in each cell using an NO indicator. An enzyme-linked immunoassay was used to measure the phosphorylated nitric oxide synthase (NOS) levels in ECs, DFs, and KCs in the presence or absence of MPS. RESULTS Topical application of MPS increased the skin blood volume in mice, and this increase was abolished through the addition of NOS inhibitors. MPS promoted the dose-dependent production of NO in various cells, which caused alterations in the phosphorylation state of NOS. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate that MPS promotes an increase in skin blood volume and NO production in various skin cell types. These results suggest that MPS can potentially accelerate CBF through the NO biosynthesis pathway in different skin cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tam Kurachi
- Drug Development Research Laboratories, Kyoto R&D Center, Maruho Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Hironobu Ishimaru
- Drug Development Research Laboratories, Kyoto R&D Center, Maruho Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Ryo Tadakuma
- Drug Development Research Laboratories, Kyoto R&D Center, Maruho Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan
| | - Miu Okaue
- Drug Development Research Laboratories, Kyoto R&D Center, Maruho Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akira Koda
- Drug Development Research Laboratories, Kyoto R&D Center, Maruho Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuhki Ueda
- Drug Development Research Laboratories, Kyoto R&D Center, Maruho Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takaaki Doi
- Drug Development Research Laboratories, Kyoto R&D Center, Maruho Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan
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Rasmussen VF, Schmeichel A, Thrysøe M, Nyengaard JR, Christensen AMR, Vestergaard ET, Kristensen K, Terkelsen AJ, Karlsson P, Singer W. Sweat gland nerve fiber density and association with sudomotor function, symptoms, and risk factors in adolescents with type 1 diabetes. Clin Auton Res 2023; 33:691-703. [PMID: 37682387 PMCID: PMC10751258 DOI: 10.1007/s10286-023-00973-7] [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: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To quantify sweat gland nerve fiber density in adolescents with diabetes. Additionally, to investigate associations between sudomotor innervation, sweat responses, and possible risk factors for sudomotor neuropathy. METHODS Cross-sectional study where 60 adolescents with type 1 diabetes (duration > 5 years) and 23 control subjects were included. Clinical data, quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test, and skin biopsies were obtained. Skin tissue was immunostained and imaged by confocal microscopy. Quantification of the sweat gland volume and three-dimensional reconstruction of the nerve fibers was performed using a design-unbiased technique. RESULTS Adolescents with diabetes had a significant reduction of maximum and mean values of nerve fiber length and nerve fiber density in sweat glands compared to controls (p values < 0.05). No association between nerve fiber density and sweat responses was found (p = 0.21). In cases with reduced sweat gland nerve fiber length, nerve fiber density, and volume, the sweat response was reduced or absent. Height, systolic blood pressure, time in hypoglycemia, and total daily and basal/total insulin dose were positively correlated to sweat response, while low-density lipoprotein, and HbA1c were negatively correlated with sweat response (p values < 0.05). Other microvascular complications and high cholesterol levels increased the relative risk for reduced sweat gland nerve fiber density. CONCLUSION Our findings of reduced sweat gland innervation in a selected group of adolescents add new knowledge about the structural changes that occur in autonomic nerves due to diabetes. Evaluating both the sweat gland innervation and sweat gland volume was important for understanding the association with sweat responses. Further research is needed to understand its clinical relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinni Faber Rasmussen
- Danish Pain Research Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescents, Randers Regional Hospital, Randers, Denmark.
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Ann Schmeichel
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Mathilde Thrysøe
- Danish Pain Research Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jens Randel Nyengaard
- Core Center for Molecular Morphology, Section for Stereology and Microscopy, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Pathology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ann-Margrethe Rønholt Christensen
- Steno Diabetes Center North Denmark, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescents, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Esben Thyssen Vestergaard
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescents, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kurt Kristensen
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescents, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Astrid Juhl Terkelsen
- Danish Pain Research Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Páll Karlsson
- Danish Pain Research Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Core Center for Molecular Morphology, Section for Stereology and Microscopy, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Waqar S, Khan H, Zulfiqar SK, Ahmad A. Skin Biopsy as a Diagnostic Tool for Synucleinopathies. Cureus 2023; 15:e47179. [PMID: 38022110 PMCID: PMC10652148 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.47179] [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] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies published in the last decade identified skin biopsies as a promising source of material for detecting alpha-synuclein (αSN). Alpha-synuclein gets deposited in the skin of patients with synucleinopathies, and therefore, a skin biopsy can be used to diagnose and confirm these diseases histopathologically. A skin biopsy can also be helpful for studies focusing on the nature of αSN deposits. The most important aspects of a biomarker are sensitivity, specificity, and technical feasibility. The potential for a skin biopsy to become the clinical tool of choice as a reliable biomarker for diagnosing synucleinopathies appears to be high, with consistently high sensitivity (>80%) and specificity approaching 100%. The review aims to provide an overview of the factors impacting skin biopsy's sensitivity, specificity, and feasibility in detecting dermal αSN deposits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Waqar
- Pathology, Geisinger Health System, Danville, USA
| | - Hajra Khan
- Medicine, Rawalpindi Medical University, Rawalpindi, PAK
| | | | - Adeel Ahmad
- Dermatopathology/Dermatology/Pathology, Private Practice, Beckley, USA
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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: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [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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Kittleson MM, Ruberg FL, Ambardekar AV, Brannagan TH, Cheng RK, Clarke JO, Dember LM, Frantz JG, Hershberger RE, Maurer MS, Nativi-Nicolau J, Sanchorawala V, Sheikh FH. 2023 ACC Expert Consensus Decision Pathway on Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Care for the Patient With Cardiac Amyloidosis: A Report of the American College of Cardiology Solution Set Oversight Committee. J Am Coll Cardiol 2023; 81:1076-1126. [PMID: 36697326 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2022.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 107.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Galosi E, Leonardi L, Falco P, Di Pietro G, Fasolino A, Esposito N, Leone C, Di Stefano G, Inghilleri M, Luigetti M, Giovanni A, Truini A. Functional and morphometric assessment of small-fibre damage in late-onset hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis with polyneuropathy: the controversial relation between small-fibre-related symptoms and diagnostic test findings. Amyloid 2023; 30:59-66. [PMID: 36094793 DOI: 10.1080/13506129.2022.2120799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We aimed at investigating whether functional and morphometric tests assessing small-fibre damage, ie quantitative sensory testing, Sudoscan and skin biopsy, reliably reflect neuropathic pain and autonomic symptoms in patients with late-onset hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis with polyneuropathy (ATTRv-PN). METHODS In 30 patients with late-onset ATTRv-PN, we collected quantitative sensory testing, Sudoscan and skin biopsy with assessment of intraepidermal, piloerector muscle and sweat gland nerve fibre density. We then correlated these functional and morphometric parameters with neuropathic pain and autonomic symptoms as assessed with the Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory (NPSI) and Composite Autonomic Symptom Score-31 (COMPASS-31). RESULTS 50% of patients showed small-fibre damage in the form of a pure small-fibre neuropathy, 47% in the context of a mixed fibre neuropathy with small and large fibre involvement. All patients complained of at least one autonomic symptom and 60% had neuropathic pain. Whereas quantitative sensory testing and Sudoscan parameters correlated with neuropathic pain and autonomic symptoms as assessed by NPSI and COMPASS-31, intraepidermal, piloerector muscle and sweat gland nerve fibre density quantification did not. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that functional test parameters reliably reflect neuropathic pain and autonomic symptoms related to small-fibre damage. These findings might help to identify clinically useful biomarkers to assess patient follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Galosi
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Leonardi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Pietro Falco
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Caterina Leone
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Marco Luigetti
- Dipartimento Universitario di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonini Giovanni
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Truini
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
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Rasmussen TK, Karlsson P, Finnerup NB, Jensen TS, Nyengaard JR, Terkelsen AJ. Functional and structural markers of peripheral microvascular autonomic neuropathy. Muscle Nerve 2023; 67:146-153. [PMID: 36504143 PMCID: PMC10108116 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27770] [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: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Autonomic dysfunction is a common complication of small-fiber neuropathy (SFN). In this study we aimed to assess the applicability of autonomic microvascular indices as a potential marker for SFN assessment. METHODS Fifteen patients with confirmed SFN (idiopathic neuropathy [n = 10], chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy [n = 2], impaired glucose tolerance [n = 1], hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (hATTR) [n = 1], pulmonary sarcoidosis [n = 1]) and 15 matched control subjects underwent assessment of vascular skin responses assessed through laser Doppler flowmetry and evaluation of microvascular vessel and nerve density in skin biopsies. All participants underwent peripheral autonomic evaluation by quantitative sudomotor axon reflex testing (QSART). RESULTS We found no significant differences in vascular skin responses, or in any microvascular skin biopsy markers, when comparing SFN with control subjects. We found no correlation between vascular skin responses and skin biopsy indices. We saw no significant difference in any microvascular indices when comparing subjects with and without impaired sudomotor function. DISCUSSION Our findings suggest markers of peripheral microvascular innervation and function are not associated with the diagnosis of SFN. Furthermore, we saw no association between microvascular markers and sudomotor function, suggesting that these are independent and unrelated components of the autonomic nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thorsten K Rasmussen
- Danish Pain Research Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Páll Karlsson
- Danish Pain Research Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Core Center for Molecular Morphology, Section for Stereology and Microscopy, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Nanna B Finnerup
- Danish Pain Research Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Troels S Jensen
- Danish Pain Research Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jens R Nyengaard
- Core Center for Molecular Morphology, Section for Stereology and Microscopy, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Pathology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Astrid J Terkelsen
- Danish Pain Research Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Separate extraction of human eccrine sweat gland activity and peripheral hemodynamics from high- and low-quality thermal imaging data. J Therm Biol 2022; 110:103351. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2022.103351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Cramer MN, Gagnon D, Laitano O, Crandall CG. Human temperature regulation under heat stress in health, disease, and injury. Physiol Rev 2022; 102:1907-1989. [PMID: 35679471 PMCID: PMC9394784 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00047.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The human body constantly exchanges heat with the environment. Temperature regulation is a homeostatic feedback control system that ensures deep body temperature is maintained within narrow limits despite wide variations in environmental conditions and activity-related elevations in metabolic heat production. Extensive research has been performed to study the physiological regulation of deep body temperature. This review focuses on healthy and disordered human temperature regulation during heat stress. Central to this discussion is the notion that various morphological features, intrinsic factors, diseases, and injuries independently and interactively influence deep body temperature during exercise and/or exposure to hot ambient temperatures. The first sections review fundamental aspects of the human heat stress response, including the biophysical principles governing heat balance and the autonomic control of heat loss thermoeffectors. Next, we discuss the effects of different intrinsic factors (morphology, heat adaptation, biological sex, and age), diseases (neurological, cardiovascular, metabolic, and genetic), and injuries (spinal cord injury, deep burns, and heat stroke), with emphasis on the mechanisms by which these factors enhance or disturb the regulation of deep body temperature during heat stress. We conclude with key unanswered questions in this field of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew N Cramer
- Defence Research and Development Canada-Toronto Research Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel Gagnon
- Montreal Heart Institute and School of Kinesiology and Exercise Science, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Orlando Laitano
- Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Craig G Crandall
- Institute for Exercise and Environmental Medicine, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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12
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Casellini CM, Parson HK, Bailey MD, Dyson T, Van Voorhees AS, Vinik AI, Siraj ES. Cardiac and Sudomotor Autonomic Function in Subjects with Psoriasis With and Without Metabolic Syndrome. Metab Syndr Relat Disord 2022; 20:234-242. [PMID: 35532949 DOI: 10.1089/met.2021.0112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Studies have shown that subjects with psoriasis (PsO) are associated with an increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome (MetS), diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. In addition, MetS and diabetes are associated with autonomic dysfunction (AD). The aim of this study was to investigate cardiac and sudomotor autonomic function in subjects with PsO and without diabetes. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed in 20 subjects with PsO, compared with age- and sex-matched 21 healthy controls, and 20 subjects with MetS. Subjects underwent skin evaluation by dermatologist, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin, glucose, and lipid levels, sudomotor function testing with Sudoscan™ device (Impeto Medical, Paris, France), and cardiac autonomic function testing with ANSAR device (ANX 3.0; ANSAR Group, Inc., Philadelphia, PA). Quality of Life (QOL) and peripheral neurologic function were also assessed. Results: Participants with PsO were significantly more obese, had higher levels of fasting insulin and triglycerides, and were more insulin resistant when compared to controls. Subjects with PsO showed significantly worse cardiac autonomic function when compared to control and MetS groups. Sudomotor function and QOL scores were similar between the groups. Subgroup analysis of PsO subjects without MetS criteria (n = 15) showed persistent significantly deteriorated cardiac autonomic function when compared to the other two groups. Conclusion: This study suggests an association between PsO and cardiac AD, independent of the presence of overt dysglycemia and MetS. Additional larger studies are needed to clarify the significance of these findings and the relationship between PsO, AD, and metabolic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina M Casellini
- Strelitz Diabetes Center, Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders, Department of Internal Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Henri K Parson
- Strelitz Diabetes Center, Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders, Department of Internal Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Michael D Bailey
- Strelitz Diabetes Center, Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders, Department of Internal Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Taylor Dyson
- Department of Dermatology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Abby S Van Voorhees
- Department of Dermatology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Aaron I Vinik
- Strelitz Diabetes Center, Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders, Department of Internal Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Elias S Siraj
- Strelitz Diabetes Center, Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders, Department of Internal Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
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13
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Novak P, Mukerji SS, Alabsi HS, Systrom D, Marciano SP, Felsenstein D, Mullally WJ, Pilgrim DM. Multisystem Involvement in Post-acute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC). Ann Neurol 2021; 91:367-379. [PMID: 34952975 PMCID: PMC9011495 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe cerebrovascular, neuropathic and autonomic features of post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC). METHODS This retrospective study evaluated consecutive patients with chronic fatigue, brain fog and orthostatic intolerance consistent with PASC. Controls included postural tachycardia syndrome patients (POTS) and healthy participants. Analyzed data included surveys and autonomic (Valsalva maneuver, deep breathing, sudomotor and tilt tests), cerebrovascular (cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFv) monitoring in middle cerebral artery), respiratory (capnography monitoring) and neuropathic (skin biopsies for assessment of small fiber neuropathy) testing and inflammatory/autoimmune markers. RESULTS Nine PASC patients were evaluated 0.7±0.3 years after a mild COVID-19 infection, treated as home observations. Autonomic, pain, brain fog, fatigue and dyspnea surveys were abnormal in PASC and POTS (n=10), compared to controls (n=15). Tilt table test reproduced the majority of PASC symptoms. Orthostatic CBFv declined in PASC (-20.0±13.4%) and POTS (-20.3±15.1%), compared to controls (-3.0±7.5%,p=0.001) and was independent of end-tidal carbon dioxide in PASC, but caused by hyperventilation in POTS. Reduced orthostatic CBFv in PASC included both subjects without (n=6) and with (n=3) orthostatic tachycardia. Dysautonomia was frequent (100% in both PASC and POTS) but was milder in PASC (p=0.013). PASC and POTS cohorts diverged in frequency of small fiber neuropathy (89% vs. 60%) but not in inflammatory markers (67% vs. 70%). Supine and orthostatic hypocapnia was observed in PASC. INTERPRETATION PASC following mild COVID-19 infection is associated with multisystem involvement including: 1) cerebrovascular dysregulation with persistent cerebral arteriolar vasoconstriction; 2) small fiber neuropathy and related dysautonomia; 3) respiratory dysregulation; 4) chronic inflammation. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Novak
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Shibani S Mukerji
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Haitham S Alabsi
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - David Systrom
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Sadie P Marciano
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Donna Felsenstein
- Department of Infectious Disease and Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - William J Mullally
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - David M Pilgrim
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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14
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Novak P, Giannetti MP, Weller E, Hamilton MJ, Castells M. Mast cell disorders are associated with decreased cerebral blood flow and small fiber neuropathy. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2021; 128:299-306.e1. [PMID: 34648976 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2021.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mast cell disorders including hereditary alpha tryptasemia (HαT) and idiopathic mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) can be associated with neurologic symptoms such as orthostatic intolerance, pain, and cognitive impairment. The origin of these symptoms is not well understood. OBJECTIVE To characterize neurologic findings in patients with HαT and MCAS through objective measurements. METHODS Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of HαT or MCAS with neurologic symptoms were referred for standardized autonomic testing encompassing Valsalva maneuver, deep breathing, sudomotor and tilt tests with cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFv) determination, and skin biopsies for small fiber neuropathy (SFN). RESULTS There were 15 patients with HαT (age 44.4 ± 15.9 years), 16 with MCAS (34.4 ± 15.5), and 14 matched controls who were evaluated. Baseline serum tryptase level was increased in patients with HαT when compared with patients with MCAS (14.3 ± 2.5 ng/mL vs 3.8 ± 1.8; P <.001) and neurologic symptoms were similar between the 2 groups. When compared with controls, orthostatic CBFv was reduced in HαT (-24.2 ± 14.3%; P <.001) and MCAS (-20.8 ± 5.5%; P <.001). Reduced nerve fibers consistent with SFN were found in 80% of patients with HαT and 81% of those with MCAS. Mild-to-moderate dysautonomia was detected in all patients with HαT and MCAS when results of sympathetic, parasympathetic, and sudomotor tests were combined. CONCLUSION We provide evidence of reduced orthostatic CBFv and SFN associated with mild-to-moderate autonomic dysfunction in patients with HαT and MCAS. Our findings suggest that comprehensive autonomic testing may be helpful to explain neurologic symptoms and guide treatment in patients with HαT and MCAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Novak
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Matthew P Giannetti
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Emily Weller
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Matthew J Hamilton
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Gastroenterology, Endoscopy, and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mariana Castells
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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15
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Sharma JK, Rohatgi A, Sharma D. Diabetic autonomic neuropathy: a clinical update. J R Coll Physicians Edinb 2021; 50:269-273. [PMID: 32936100 DOI: 10.4997/jrcpe.2020.310] [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] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic autonomic neuropathy is an under-recognised complication of diabetes and the prediabetic state. A wide range of manifestations can be seen due to involvement of cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, sudomotor and neuroendocrine systems. Cardiac autonomic neuropathy is the most dreaded complication carrying significant mortality and morbidity. Early detection and control of diabetes and other cardiovascular risk factors is the key to treat and prevent progression of autonomic neuropathy. Recently, a new entity of treatment-induced neuropathy (TIND) of diabetes mellitus causing autonomic neuropathy is being increasingly recognised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jugal Kishor Sharma
- Central Delhi Diabetes Centre, 34/34, Old Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi 110060, India,
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16
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Trevino JA, Novak P. TS‐HDS
and
FGFR3
antibodies in small fiber neuropathy and Dysautonomia. Muscle Nerve 2021; 64:70-76. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.27245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge A. Trevino
- Department of Neurology Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Peter Novak
- Department of Neurology Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School Boston Massachusetts USA
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17
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Wilson TE, Narra S, Metzler-Wilson K, Schneider A, Bullens KA, Holt IS. Role of Bradykinin Type 2 Receptors in Human Sweat Secretion: Translational Evidence Does Not Support a Functional Relationship. Skin Pharmacol Physiol 2021; 34:162-166. [PMID: 33794540 DOI: 10.1159/000514497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Bradykinin increases skin blood flow via a cGMP mechanism but its role in sweating in vivo is unclear. There is a current need to translate cell culture and nonhuman paw pad studies into in vivo human preparations to test for therapeutic viability for disorders affecting sweat glands. Protocol 1: physiological sweating was induced in 10 healthy subjects via perfusing warm (46-48°C) water through a tube-lined suit while bradykinin type 2 receptor (B2R) antagonist (HOE-140; 40 μM) and only the vehicle (lactated Ringer's) were perfused intradermally via microdialysis. Heat stress increased sweat rate (HOE-140 = +0.79 ± 0.12 and vehicle = +0.64 ± 0.10 mg/cm2/min), but no differences were noted with B2R antagonism. Protocol 2: pharmacological sweating was induced in 6 healthy subjects via intradermally perfusing pilocarpine (1.67 mg/mL) followed by the same B2R antagonist approach. Pilocarpine increased sweating (HOE-140 = +0.38 ± 0.16 and vehicle = +0.32 ± 0.12 mg/cm2/min); again no differences were observed with B2R antagonism. Last, 5 additional subjects were recruited for various control experiments which identified that a functional dose of HOE-140 was utilized and it was not sudorific during normothermic conditions. These data indicate B2R antagonists do not modulate physiologically or pharmacologically induced eccrine secretion volumes. Thus, B2R agonist/antagonist development as a potential therapeutic target for hypo- and hyperhidrosis appears unwarranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thad E Wilson
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Seetharam Narra
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Kristen Metzler-Wilson
- Department of Physical Therapy, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, & Physiology, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Department of Dermatology, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Artur Schneider
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Kelsey A Bullens
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Ian S Holt
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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18
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Courson JA, Landry PT, Do T, Spehlmann E, Lafontant PJ, Patel N, Rumbaut RE, Burns AR. Serial Block-Face Scanning Electron Microscopy (SBF-SEM) of Biological Tissue Samples. J Vis Exp 2021:10.3791/62045. [PMID: 33843931 PMCID: PMC8225236 DOI: 10.3791/62045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBF-SEM) allows for the collection of hundreds to thousands of serially-registered ultrastructural images, offering an unprecedented three-dimensional view of tissue microanatomy. While SBF-SEM has seen an exponential increase in use in recent years, technical aspects such as proper tissue preparation and imaging parameters are paramount for the success of this imaging modality. This imaging system benefits from the automated nature of the device, allowing one to leave the microscope unattended during the imaging process, with the automated collection of hundreds of images possible in a single day. However, without appropriate tissue preparation cellular ultrastructure can be altered in such a way that incorrect or misleading conclusions might be drawn. Additionally, images are generated by scanning the block-face of a resin-embedded biological sample and this often presents challenges and considerations that must be addressed. The accumulation of electrons within the block during imaging, known as "tissue charging," can lead to a loss of contrast and an inability to appreciate cellular structure. Moreover, while increasing electron beam intensity/voltage or decreasing beam-scanning speed can increase image resolution, this can also have the unfortunate side effect of damaging the resin block and distorting subsequent images in the imaging series. Here we present a routine protocol for the preparation of biological tissue samples that preserves cellular ultrastructure and diminishes tissue charging. We also provide imaging considerations for the rapid acquisition of high-quality serial-images with minimal damage to the tissue block.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin A. Courson
- University of Houston, College of Optometry, Houston, TX,
United States of America
| | - Paul T. Landry
- University of Houston, College of Optometry, Houston, TX,
United States of America
| | - Thao Do
- University of Houston, College of Optometry, Houston, TX,
United States of America
| | - Eric Spehlmann
- DePauw University, Department of Biology, Greencastle, IN,
United States of America
| | - Pascal J. Lafontant
- DePauw University, Department of Biology, Greencastle, IN,
United States of America
| | - Nimesh Patel
- University of Houston, College of Optometry, Houston, TX,
United States of America
| | - Rolando E. Rumbaut
- Center for Translational Research on Inflammatory Diseases
(CTRID), Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX, United
States of America,Baylor College of Medicine, Children’s Nutrition
Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Alan R. Burns
- University of Houston, College of Optometry, Houston, TX,
United States of America,Baylor College of Medicine, Children’s Nutrition
Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
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19
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Raasing LR, Vogels OJ, Veltkamp M, van Swol CF, Grutters JC. Current View of Diagnosing Small Fiber Neuropathy. J Neuromuscul Dis 2021; 8:185-207. [PMID: 33337383 PMCID: PMC8075405 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-200490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Small fiber neuropathy (SFN) is a disorder of the small myelinated Aδ-fibers and unmyelinated C-fibers [5, 6]. SFN might affect small sensory fibers, autonomic fibers or both, resulting in sensory changes, autonomic dysfunction or combined symptoms [7]. As a consequence, the symptoms are potentially numerous and have a large impact on quality of life [8]. Since diagnostic methods for SFN are numerous and its pathophysiology complex, this extensive review focusses on categorizing all aspects of SFN as disease and its diagnosis. In this review, sensitivity in combination with specificity of different diagnostic methods are described using the areas under the curve. In the end, a diagnostic work-flow is suggested based on different phenotypes of SFN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisette R.M. Raasing
- ILD Center of Excellence, Department of Pulmonology,St Antonius Hospital, CM, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - Oscar J.M. Vogels
- Department of Neurology, St Antonius Hospital, CM, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel Veltkamp
- ILD Center of Excellence, Department of Pulmonology,St Antonius Hospital, CM, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
- Division of Heart and Lungs, University Medical Center Utrecht, CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jan C. Grutters
- ILD Center of Excellence, Department of Pulmonology,St Antonius Hospital, CM, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
- Division of Heart and Lungs, University Medical Center Utrecht, CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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20
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Contribution of Skin Biopsy in Peripheral Neuropathies. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10120989. [PMID: 33333929 PMCID: PMC7765344 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10120989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last three decades the study of cutaneous innervation through 3 mm-punch-biopsy has provided an important contribution to the knowledge of small fiber somatic and autonomic neuropathies but also of large fiber neuropathies. Skin biopsy is a minimally invasive technique with the advantage, compared to sural nerve biopsy, of being suitable to be applied to any site in our body, of being repeatable over time, of allowing the identification of each population of nerve fiber through its target. In patients with symptoms and signs of small fiber neuropathy the assessment of IntraEpidermal Nerve Fiber density is the gold standard to confirm the diagnosis while the quantification of sudomotor, pilomotor, and vasomotor nerve fibers allows to evaluate and characterize the autonomic involvement. All these parameters can be re-evaluated over time to monitor the disease process and to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatments. Myelinated fibers and their receptors can also be evaluated to detect a “dying back” neuropathy early when nerve conduction study is still normal. Furthermore, the morphometry of dermal myelinated fibers has provided new insight into pathophysiological mechanisms of different types of inherited and acquired large fibers neuropathies. In genetic neuropathies skin biopsy has become a surrogate for sural nerve biopsy, no longer necessary in the diagnostic process, to study genotype–phenotype correlations.
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21
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Gibbons CH, Wang N, Kim JY, Campagnolo M, Freeman R. Skin Biopsy in Evaluation of Autonomic Disorders. Continuum (Minneap Minn) 2020; 26:200-212. [PMID: 31996629 DOI: 10.1212/con.0000000000000814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article provides an up-to-date assessment of the role of skin biopsy in the evaluation of autonomic disorders. The standard methodology for completing a skin biopsy, the anatomic structures of interest detected within a skin biopsy, and the disease states in which skin biopsies may provide valuable information are reviewed. RECENT FINDINGS Several recent advances in the studies of hereditary amyloidosis and the various degenerative synucleinopathies have demonstrated that simple skin biopsies can provide valuable pathologic evidence of neurologic disease. In addition to diagnosis of the underlying disorder, skin biopsies provide a quantitative structural measurement of the associated autonomic damage. SUMMARY Skin biopsies are making great inroads into the study of autonomic and peripheral nerve disorders. Complex immunohistochemical staining protocols are challenging to complete, but the rich data derived from these studies in the diagnosis and monitoring of different disease states suggest that the role of skin biopsies in the study of the autonomic nervous system will continue to expand in the years to come.
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22
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The diversity of neuronal phenotypes in rodent and human autonomic ganglia. Cell Tissue Res 2020; 382:201-231. [PMID: 32930881 PMCID: PMC7584561 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03279-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Selective sympathetic and parasympathetic pathways that act on target organs represent the terminal actors in the neurobiology of homeostasis and often become compromised during a range of neurodegenerative and traumatic disorders. Here, we delineate several neurotransmitter and neuromodulator phenotypes found in diverse parasympathetic and sympathetic ganglia in humans and rodent species. The comparative approach reveals evolutionarily conserved and non-conserved phenotypic marker constellations. A developmental analysis examining the acquisition of selected neurotransmitter properties has provided a detailed, but still incomplete, understanding of the origins of a set of noradrenergic and cholinergic sympathetic neuron populations, found in the cervical and trunk region. A corresponding analysis examining cholinergic and nitrergic parasympathetic neurons in the head, and a range of pelvic neuron populations, with noradrenergic, cholinergic, nitrergic, and mixed transmitter phenotypes, remains open. Of particular interest are the molecular mechanisms and nuclear processes that are responsible for the correlated expression of the various genes required to achieve the noradrenergic phenotype, the segregation of cholinergic locus gene expression, and the regulation of genes that are necessary to generate a nitrergic phenotype. Unraveling the neuron population-specific expression of adhesion molecules, which are involved in axonal outgrowth, pathway selection, and synaptic organization, will advance the study of target-selective autonomic pathway generation.
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23
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Reduction of focal sweating by lipid nanoparticle-delivered myricetin. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13132. [PMID: 32753614 PMCID: PMC7403431 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-69985-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Myricetin—a flavonoid capable of inhibiting the SNARE complex formation in neurons—reduces focal sweating after skin-application when delivers as encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (M-LNPs). The stability of M-LNP enables efficient delivery of myricetin to sudomotor nerves located underneath sweat glands through transappendageal pathways while free myricetin just remained on the skin. Furthermore, release of myricetin from M-LNP is accelerated through lipase-/esterase-induced lipolysis in the skin-appendages, enabling uptake of myricetin by the surrounding cells. The amount of sweat is reduced by 55% after application of M-LNP (0.8 mg kg−1) on the mouse footpad. This is comparable to that of subcutaneously injected anticholinergic agents [0.25 mg kg−1 glycopyrrolate; 0.8 U kg−1 botulinum neurotoxin-A-type (BoNT/A)]. M-LNP neither shows a distal effect after skin-application nor induced cellular/ocular toxicity. In conclusion, M-LNP is an efficient skin-applicable antiperspirant. SNARE-inhibitory small molecules with suitable delivery systems have the potential to replace many BoNT/A interventions for which self-applications are preferred.
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24
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Devigili G, Cazzato D, Lauria G. Clinical diagnosis and management of small fiber neuropathy: an update on best practice. Expert Rev Neurother 2020; 20:967-980. [PMID: 32654574 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2020.1794825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Small fiber neuropathy (SFN) is a heterogeneous group of disorders affecting thin myelinated Aδ and unmyelinated C fibers. Common symptoms include neuropathic pain and autonomic disturbances, and the typical clinical presentation is that of a length-dependent polyneuropathy, although other distributions could be present. AREA COVERED This review focuses on several aspects of SFN including etiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic criteria and tests, management, and future perspectives. Diagnostic challenges are discussed, encompassing the role of accurate and standardized assessment of symptoms and signs and providing clues for the clinical practice. The authors discuss the evidence in support of skin biopsy and quantitative sensory testing as diagnostic tests and present an overview of other diagnostic techniques to assess sensory and autonomic fibers dysfunction. The authors also suggest a systematic approach to the etiology including a set of laboratory tests and genetic examinations of sodium channelopathies and other rare conditions that might drive the therapeutic approach based on underlying cause or symptoms treatment. EXPERT OPINION SFN provides a useful model for neuropathic pain whose known mechanisms and cause could pave the way toward personalized treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Devigili
- Movement Disorders Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico "Carlo Besta" , Milan, Italy
| | - Daniele Cazzato
- Neurophysiology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico "Carlo Besta" , Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico "Carlo Besta" , Milan, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences "Luigi Sacco", University of Milan , Milan, Italy
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25
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Sohn E, Suh BC, Wang N, Freeman R, Gibbons CH. A novel method to quantify cutaneous vascular innervation. Muscle Nerve 2020; 62:492-501. [PMID: 32270499 DOI: 10.1002/mus.26889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To develop a new method to quantify the density of nerves, vessels, and the neurovascular contacts, we studied skin biopsies in diabetes and control subjects. METHODS Skin biopsies with dual immunofluorescent staining were used to visualize nerves and blood vessels. The density of nerves, vessels, and their neurovascular contacts were quantified with unbiased stereology. Results were compared with examination findings, validated questionnaires, and autonomic function. RESULTS In tissue from 19 controls and 20 patients with diabetes, inter-rater and intra-rater intraclass correlation coefficients were high (>0.85; P < .001) for all quantitative methods. In diabetes, the nerve densities (P < .05), vessel densities (P < .01), and the neurovascular densities (P < .01) were lower compared with 20 controls. Results correlated with autonomic function, examination and symptom scores. DISCUSSION We report an unbiased, stereological method to quantify the cutaneous nerve, vessel and neurovascular density and offer new avenues of investigation into cutaneous neurovascular innervation in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunhee Sohn
- Department of Neurology, Chungnam University Hospital, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Bum Chun Suh
- Department of Neurology, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ningshan Wang
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Roy Freeman
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christopher H Gibbons
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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26
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Porubcin MG, Novak P. Diagnostic Accuracy of Electrochemical Skin Conductance in the Detection of Sudomotor Fiber Loss. Front Neurol 2020; 11:273. [PMID: 32425871 PMCID: PMC7212463 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Small fiber neuropathy (SFN) is a common health problem. SFN is associated with loss of small fibers, either sensory, autonomic or both. Reduced autonomic sudomotor sweat gland nerve fiber density (SGNFD) and sensory epidermal nerve fiber density (ENFD) can be seen in SFN. Electrochemical skin conductance (ESC) is a non-invasive test for measurement of sudomotor function. This study evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of ESC to detect abnormal SGNFD and ENFD. Methods: This was a retrospective blinded study of participants referred for evaluation of SFN. The primary outcome measure was the specificity and sensitivity of ESC to diagnose loss of small fibers using SGNFD and ENFD as reference tests. The secondary outcome measures were the correlation between ESC and neuropathy severity, pain, and autonomic clinical scales. Results: Two hundred ten patients were enrolled in the study, age (mean ± sd) 45.5 ± 16.1 years, men/women = 52/158. ESC adjusted for weight (ESC/kg) was reduced in subjects with abnormally low SGNFD (normal/abnormal, ESC/kg = 1.19 ± 0.31/0.94 ± 0.37 μS/kg, p < 0.0001) and abnormally low ENFD (normal/abnormal ESC/kg 1.20 ± 0.37/1.04 ± 0.33 μS/kg, p < 0.0011). ESC/kg correlated with SGNFD (ρ = 0.39, p < 0.0001) and ENFD (ρ = 0.47, p < 0.0001). ESC/kg did not correlate with symptom scales. ESC/kg had 64% sensitivity and 77% specificity (ROC 0.73, p = 0.0001) to predict abnormal SGNFD and 69% sensitivity and 55% specificity (ROC 0.63, p = 0.0017) to predict abnormal ENFD. In comparison, SGNFD had 50.1% sensitivity and 85.1% specificity to predict abnormal ENFD (ROC 0.69, p = 0.0001). Conclusion: ESC/kg has modest accuracy to detect SGNFD loss. ESC may be a useful test in characterization of small fiber neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal G Porubcin
- Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Peter Novak
- Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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Chao CC, Hsueh HW, Kan HW, Liao CH, Jiang HH, Chiang H, Lin WM, Yeh TY, Lin YH, Cheng YY, Hsieh ST. Skin nerve pathology: Biomarkers of premanifest and manifest amyloid neuropathy. Ann Neurol 2020; 85:560-573. [PMID: 30737830 DOI: 10.1002/ana.25433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2018] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Small-fiber sensory and autonomic symptoms are early presentations of familial amyloid polyneuropathy (FAP) with transthyretin (TTR) mutations. This study aimed to explore the potential of skin nerve pathologies as early and disease-progression biomarkers and their relationship with skin amyloid deposits. METHODS Skin biopsies were performed in patients and carriers to measure intraepidermal nerve fiber (IENF) density, sweat gland innervation index of structural protein gene product 9.5 (SGII[PGP9.5]) and peptidergic vasoactive intestinal peptide (SGII[VIP]), and cutaneous amyloid index. These skin pathologies were analyzed with clinical disability assessed by FAP stage score (stage 0-4) and compared to neurophysiological and psychophysical tests. RESULTS There were 70 TTR-mutant subjects (22 carriers and 48 patients), and 66 cases were TTR-A97S. Skin nerve pathologies were distinct according to stage. In carriers, both skin denervation and peptidergic sudomotor denervation were evident: (1) IENF density was gradually reduced from stage 0 through 4, and (2) SGII(VIP) was markedly reduced from stage 1 to 2. In contrast, SGII(PGP9.5) was similar between carriers and controls, but it declined in patients from stage 2. Skin amyloids were absent in carriers and became detectable from stage 1. Cutaneous amyloid index was correlated with SGII(PGP9.5) and stage in a multivariate mixed-effect model. When all tests were compared, only IENF density, SGII(PGP9.5), and cutaneous amyloid index were correlated with stage, and IENF density had the highest abnormal rate in carriers. INTERPRETATION Biomarkers of sensory and sudomotor innervation exhibited a stage-dependent progression pattern, with sensory nerve degeneration as the early skin nerve pathology. Ann Neurol 2019;85:560-573.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Chao Chao
- Department of Neurology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsueh-Wen Hsueh
- Department of Neurology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Wei Kan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Hua Liao
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hao-Hua Jiang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hao Chiang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Whei-Min Lin
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ti-Yen Yeh
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yea-Huey Lin
- Department of Neurology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Yin Cheng
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sung-Tsang Hsieh
- Department of Neurology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Center of Precision Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
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28
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Görlach J, Amsel D, Kölbel H, Grzybowsky M, Rutsch F, Schlierbach H, Vanlander A, Pogatzki‐Zahn E, Habig K, Garkisch S, Müller V, Fritz T, Ziegler A, Hahn A, Krämer HH, Van Coster R, Schänzer A. Diagnostic utility of small fiber analysis in skin biopsies from children with chronic pain. Muscle Nerve 2019; 61:173-181. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.26766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Görlach
- Institute of NeuropathologyJustus‐Liebig‐University Giessen Giessen Germany
| | - Daniel Amsel
- Institute of NeuropathologyJustus‐Liebig‐University Giessen Giessen Germany
| | - Heike Kölbel
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Developmental Neurology and Social Pediatrics, Children's HospitalUniversity Duisburg‐Essen Essen Germany
| | - Michelle Grzybowsky
- Department of Child NeurologyJustus‐Liebig‐University Giessen Giessen Germany
| | - Frank Rutsch
- Department of General Pediatrics, Children's HospitalUniversity of Muenster Muenster Germany
| | - Hannah Schlierbach
- Institute of NeuropathologyJustus‐Liebig‐University Giessen Giessen Germany
| | - Arnaud Vanlander
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of PediatricsUniversity Hospital Gent Gent Belgium
| | - Esther Pogatzki‐Zahn
- Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain MedicineUniversity Hospital Muenster Muenster Germany
| | - Kathrin Habig
- Department of NeurologyJustus‐Liebig‐University Giessen Giessen Germany
| | - Stefanie Garkisch
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Developmental Neurology and Social Pediatrics, Children's HospitalUniversity Duisburg‐Essen Essen Germany
| | | | - Thorsten Fritz
- Centre for Pain Therapy and Anaesthesiology at Schloss Butzbach Butzbach Germany
| | - Andreas Ziegler
- Department of General Pediatrics and Neuropediatrics, HeidelbergUniversity Hospital Heidelberg Germany
| | - Andreas Hahn
- Department of Child NeurologyJustus‐Liebig‐University Giessen Giessen Germany
| | - Heidrun H. Krämer
- Department of NeurologyJustus‐Liebig‐University Giessen Giessen Germany
| | - Rudy Van Coster
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of PediatricsUniversity Hospital Gent Gent Belgium
| | - Anne Schänzer
- Institute of NeuropathologyJustus‐Liebig‐University Giessen Giessen Germany
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Ling L, Liu Y, Sun Y, Cai Y, Jiang Y, Chen L, He L, Xue J. Distribution characteristics of sweat gland nerve fibres in normal humans identified by acetylcholinesterase histochemical staining. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2019; 189:105620. [PMID: 31812030 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2019.105620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/24/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To quantitatively analyze distribution characteristics of sweat gland nerve fibres (SGNF) in normal Chinese individuals for obtaining a reference for early diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy. PATIENTS AND METHODS Skin biopsy samples were collected from 192 normal Chinese individuals and divided into six, four and two groups according to anatomic sites, age and gender, respectively. SGNF morphology was observed and SGNF density (SGNFD) was determined. RESULTS There was a significant difference in SGNFD among different anatomic sites, age and gender. A degressive tendency was observed from proximal to distal anatomic sites. SGNFD was the lowest in subjects in the 21-40-year-old age group, but was the highest in subjects in the >61-year-old age group. Overall, SGNFD fluctuated with age. SGNFD in males was significantly higher than that in females. CONCLUSIONS Distribution characteristics of SGNF in normal individuals may serve as a reference for early diagnosis of nerve fibre damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Ling
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, 071000, Hebei, China
| | - Yongdan Liu
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, 150036, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yifei Sun
- Hebei University, Baoding, 071000, Hebei, China
| | - Yun Cai
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, 071000, Hebei, China
| | - Ye Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, 071000, Hebei, China
| | - Longjian Chen
- Department of Neurology, Hebei University, Baoding, 071000, Hebei, China
| | - Long He
- Department of Neurology, Hebei University, Baoding, 071000, Hebei, China
| | - Jinwei Xue
- Department of Orthopedics, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, 071000, Hebei, China.
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30
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Devigili G, Rinaldo S, Lombardi R, Cazzato D, Marchi M, Salvi E, Eleopra R, Lauria G. Diagnostic criteria for small fibre neuropathy in clinical practice and research. Brain 2019; 142:3728-3736. [PMID: 31665231 PMCID: PMC6906595 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awz333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The diagnostic criteria for small fibre neuropathy are not established, influencing the approach to patients in clinical practice, their access to disease-modifying and symptomatic treatments, the use of healthcare resources, and the design of clinical trials. To address these issues, we performed a reappraisal study of 150 patients with sensory neuropathy and a prospective and follow-up validation study of 352 new subjects with suspected sensory neuropathy. Small fibre neuropathy diagnostic criteria were based on deep clinical phenotyping, quantitative sensory testing (QST) and intraepidermal nerve fibre density (IENFD). Small fibre neuropathy was ruled out in 5 of 150 patients (3.3%) of the reappraisal study. Small fibre neuropathy was diagnosed at baseline of the validation study in 149 of 352 patients (42.4%) based on the combination between two clinical signs and abnormal QST and IENFD (69.1%), abnormal QST alone (5.4%), or abnormal IENFD alone (20.1%). Eight patients (5.4%) had abnormal QST and IENFD but no clinical signs. Further, 38 patients complained of sensory symptoms but showed no clinical signs. Of those, 34 (89.4%) had normal QST and IENFD, 4 (10.5%) had abnormal QST and normal IENFD, and none had abnormal IENFD alone. At 18-month follow-up, 19 of them (56%) reported the complete recovery of symptoms and showed normal clinical, QST and IENFD findings. None of those with one single abnormal test (QST or IENFD) developed clinical signs or showed abnormal findings on the other test. Conversely, all eight patients with abnormal QST and IENFD at baseline developed clinical signs at follow-up. The combination of clinical signs and abnormal QST and/or IENFD findings can more reliably lead to the diagnosis of small fibre neuropathy than the combination of abnormal QST and IENFD findings in the absence of clinical signs. Sensory symptoms alone should not be considered a reliable screening feature. Our findings demonstrate that the combined clinical, functional and structural approach to the diagnosis of small fibre neuropathy is reliable and relevant both for clinical practice and clinical trial design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Devigili
- Movement Disorders Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Rinaldo
- Movement Disorders Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Lombardi
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniele Cazzato
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Margherita Marchi
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Erika Salvi
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Eleopra
- Movement Disorders Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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31
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Courson JA, Smith I, Do T, Landry PT, Hargrave A, Behzad AR, Hanlon SD, Rumbaut RE, Smith CW, Burns AR. Serial block-face scanning electron microscopy reveals neuronal-epithelial cell fusion in the mouse cornea. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0224434. [PMID: 31721785 PMCID: PMC6853292 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The cornea is the most highly innervated tissue in the body. It is generally accepted that corneal stromal nerves penetrate the epithelial basal lamina giving rise to intra-epithelial nerves. During the course of a study wherein we imaged corneal nerves in mice, we observed a novel neuronal-epithelial cell interaction whereby nerves approaching the epithelium in the cornea fused with basal epithelial cells, such that their plasma membranes were continuous and the neuronal axoplasm freely abutted the epithelial cytoplasm. In this study we sought to determine the frequency, distribution, and morphological profile of neuronal-epithelial cell fusion events within the cornea. Serial electron microscopy images were obtained from the anterior stroma in the paralimbus and central cornea of 8–10 week old C57BL/6J mice. We found evidence of a novel alternative behavior involving a neuronal-epithelial interaction whereby 42.8% of central corneal nerve bundles approaching the epithelium contain axons that fuse with basal epithelial cells. The average surface-to-volume ratio of a penetrating nerve was 3.32, while the average fusing nerve was smaller at 1.39 (p ≤ 0.0001). Despite this, both neuronal-epithelial cell interactions involve similarly sized discontinuities in the basal lamina. In order to verify the plasma membrane continuity between fused neurons and epithelial cells we used the lipophilic membrane tracer DiI. The majority of corneal nerves were labeled with DiI after application to the trigeminal ganglion and, consistent with our ultrastructural observations, fusion sites recognized as DiI-labeled basal epithelial cells were located at points of stromal nerve termination. These studies provide evidence that neuronal-epithelial cell fusion is a cell-cell interaction that occurs primarily in the central cornea, and fusing nerve bundles are morphologically distinct from penetrating nerve bundles. This is, to our knowledge, the first description of neuronal-epithelial cell fusion in the literature adding a new level of complexity to the current understanding of corneal innervation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin A. Courson
- University of Houston, College of Optometry, Houston, TX, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Ian Smith
- University of Houston, College of Optometry, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Thao Do
- University of Houston, College of Optometry, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Paul T. Landry
- University of Houston, College of Optometry, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Aubrey Hargrave
- University of Houston, College of Optometry, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Ali R. Behzad
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Core Labs, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sam D. Hanlon
- University of Houston, College of Optometry, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Rolando E. Rumbaut
- Baylor College of Medicine, Children’s Nutrition Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
- Center for Translational Research on Inflammatory Diseases (CTRID), Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - C. Wayne Smith
- Baylor College of Medicine, Children’s Nutrition Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Alan R. Burns
- University of Houston, College of Optometry, Houston, TX, United States of America
- Baylor College of Medicine, Children’s Nutrition Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
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32
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Hoover
- Memphis Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Memphis, TN
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33
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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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34
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Walk D. Neurophysiologic techniques to investigate small‐fiber excitability. Muscle Nerve 2019; 60:345-346. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.26649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David Walk
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of NeurologyUniversity of Minnesota Minneapolis Minnesota
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35
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Severe distal muscle involvement and mild sensory neuropathy in a boy with infantile onset Pompe disease treated with enzyme replacement therapy for 6 years. Neuromuscul Disord 2019; 29:477-482. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2019.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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36
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Notley SR, Poirier MP, Yardley JE, Sigal RJ, Kenny GP. Impaired whole-body heat loss in type 1 diabetes during exercise in the heat: a cause for concern? Diabetologia 2019; 62:1087-1089. [PMID: 30941449 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-019-4858-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sean R Notley
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, 125 University, Room 367, Montpetit Hall, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Martin P Poirier
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, 125 University, Room 367, Montpetit Hall, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Jane E Yardley
- Augustana Faculty, University of Alberta, Camrose, AB, Canada
- Alberta Diabetes Institute, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Ronald J Sigal
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, 125 University, Room 367, Montpetit Hall, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Glen P Kenny
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, 125 University, Room 367, Montpetit Hall, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada.
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
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37
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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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38
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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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39
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Sopacua M, Hoeijmakers JGJ, Merkies ISJ, Lauria G, Waxman SG, Faber CG. Small‐fiber neuropathy: Expanding the clinical pain universe. J Peripher Nerv Syst 2019; 24:19-33. [DOI: 10.1111/jns.12298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maurice Sopacua
- Department of Neurology, School of Mental Health and NeuroscienceMaastricht University Medical Centre+ Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Janneke G. J. Hoeijmakers
- Department of Neurology, School of Mental Health and NeuroscienceMaastricht University Medical Centre+ Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Ingemar S. J. Merkies
- Department of Neurology, School of Mental Health and NeuroscienceMaastricht University Medical Centre+ Maastricht The Netherlands
- Department of NeurologySt. Elisabeth Hospital Willemstad Curaçao
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- Neuroalgology UnitIRCCS Foundation, “Carlo Besta” Neurological Institute Milan Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”University of Milan Milan Italy
| | - Stephen G. Waxman
- Department of NeurologyYale University School of Medicine New Haven Connecticut
- Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration ResearchVA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven Connecticut
| | - Catharina G. Faber
- Department of Neurology, School of Mental Health and NeuroscienceMaastricht University Medical Centre+ Maastricht The Netherlands
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Azmi S, Ferdousi M, Kalteniece A, Al-Muhannadi H, Al-Mohamedi A, Hadid NH, Mahmoud S, Bhat HA, Gad HYA, Khan A, Ponirakis G, Petropoulos IN, Alam U, Malik RA. Diagnosing and managing diabetic somatic and autonomic neuropathy. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2019; 10:2042018819826890. [PMID: 30783521 PMCID: PMC6365998 DOI: 10.1177/2042018819826890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis and management of diabetic neuropathy can be a major challenge. Late diagnosis contributes to significant morbidity in the form of painful diabetic neuropathy, foot ulceration, amputation, and increased mortality. Both hyperglycaemia and cardiovascular risk factors are implicated in the development of somatic and autonomic neuropathy and an improvement in these risk factors can reduce their rate of development and progression. There are currently no US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved disease-modifying treatments for either somatic or autonomic neuropathy, as a consequence of multiple failed phase III clinical trials. While this may be partly attributed to premature translation, there are major shortcomings in trial design and outcome measures. There are a limited number of partially effective FDA-approved treatments for the symptomatic relief of painful diabetic neuropathy and autonomic neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shazli Azmi
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester and Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Maryam Ferdousi
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester and Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Alise Kalteniece
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester and Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | | | | | | | - Salah Mahmoud
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Harun A. Bhat
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hoda Y. A. Gad
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Adnan Khan
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | - Uazman Alam
- Department of Eye and Vision Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Gender Differences in Skin Biopsy Findings in Small Fiber Neuropathy: A Retrospective Chart Review. J Clin Neuromuscul Dis 2018; 20:69-75. [PMID: 30439752 DOI: 10.1097/cnd.0000000000000228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine whether there are gender differences in the clinical presentation or skin biopsy measures of nerve fiber density in patients with small fiber neuropathy (SFN). METHODS Retrospective chart review of subjects with suspected SFN. RESULTS Of 218 cases (137 women and 81 men) with suspected SFN, 96 (44%), including 63% of the men and 33% of the women (P < 0.05), had low epidermal nerve fiber density (ENFD) or sweat gland nerve fiber density (SGNFD). There were no differences in the clinical presentation between men and women. In those with abnormal findings, low ENFD alone was more frequent in women than men (51.1% vs. 7.8%, P < 0.05), whereas abnormal SGNFD alone was more frequent in men than women (68.6% vs. 11.1%, P < 0.05). Both SGNFD and ENFD were low in 23.5% of men and 33.3% of women. Skin biopsy findings were independent of clinical presentation or etiology. CONCLUSIONS The clinical presentation of SFN is similar in men and women. In skin biopsy studies, low ENFD is more common in women and low SGNFD in men.
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Bedioui F, Lair V, Griveau S, Ringuedé A, Zagal JH, Cassir M. Electrochemical Behavior of Electrode Materials (Nickel and Stainless Steels) for Sudomotor Dysfunction Applications: A Review. ELECTROANAL 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/elan.201800439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fethi Bedioui
- Chimie ParisTech; PSL Research University, CNRS, INSERM; Université Paris Descartes; Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé; 75005 Paris France
| | - Virginie Lair
- Chimie Paristech; PSL Research University, CNRS; Institut de Recherche de Chimie de Paris; 75005 Paris France
| | - Sophie Griveau
- Chimie ParisTech; PSL Research University, CNRS, INSERM; Université Paris Descartes; Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé; 75005 Paris France
| | - Armelle Ringuedé
- Chimie Paristech; PSL Research University, CNRS; Institut de Recherche de Chimie de Paris; 75005 Paris France
| | - José H. Zagal
- Laboratorio de Electrocatálisis, Departamento de Química de los Materiales; Facultad de Química y Biología; Universidad de Santiago de Chile; Alameda 3363, Estación Central Santiago Chile
| | - Michel Cassir
- Chimie Paristech; PSL Research University, CNRS; Institut de Recherche de Chimie de Paris; 75005 Paris France
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Work-up for mitochondrial small fiber neuropathy requires application of skin biopsies. Clin Neurophysiol 2018; 129:2051-2052. [PMID: 30025802 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2018.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Loavenbruck A, Sit N, Provitera V, Kennedy W. High-resolution axon reflex sweat testing for diagnosis of neuropathy. Clin Auton Res 2018; 29:55-62. [DOI: 10.1007/s10286-018-0546-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Quantification of sweat gland innervation in patients with Fabry disease: A case-control study. J Neurol Sci 2018; 390:135-138. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2018.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2017] [Revised: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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46
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Assessing sudomotor impairment in patients with peripheral neuropathy: Comparison between electrochemical skin conductance and skin biopsy. Clin Neurophysiol 2018; 129:1341-1348. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2018.04.608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Revised: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Ren Y, Liu W, Li Y, Sun B, Li Y, Yang F, Wang H, Li M, Cui F, Huang X. Cutaneous somatic and autonomic nerve TDP-43 deposition in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurol 2018; 265:1753-1763. [PMID: 29804146 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-018-8897-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Revised: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the involvement of the sensory and autonomic nervous system in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and to determine whether TDP-43/pTDP-43 deposits in skin nerve fibers signify a valuable biomarker for ALS. METHODS Eighteen patients with ALS and 18 age- and sex-matched control subjects underwent physical examinations, in addition to donating skin biopsies from the distal leg. The density of epidermal, Meissner's corpuscle (MC), sudomotor, and pilomotor nerve fibers were measured. Confocal microscopy was used to determine the cutaneous somatic and autonomic nerve fiber density and TDP-43/pTDP-43 deposition. RESULTS Intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) was reduced in individuals with ALS (P < 0.001). MC density (MCD) (P = 0.001), sweat gland nerve fiber density (SGNFD) (P < 0.001), and pilomotor nerve fiber density (PNFD) (P < 0.001) were all reduced in ALS patients. The SGNFD correlated with the small-fiber neuropathy Symptoms Inventory Questionnaire (SFN-SIQ), VAS and age. The SFN-SIQ was higher in ALS with sensory symptoms than without sensory symptoms (P = 0.000). Furthermore, the SFN-SIQ was higher in ALS with autonomic symptoms than without autonomic symptoms (P = 0.002). SFN-SIQ was higher in ALS patients that were pTDP-43 positive than pTDP-43 negative (P = 0.04), respectively. CONCLUSIONS We established in the peripheral nervous system that higher SFN-SIQ and VAS was involved in ALS, indicating the loss of SGNF. The deposition of TDP-43/pTDP-43 in ALS nerve fibers may indicate an important role in the underlying pathogenesis of ALS. This observation might be used as a potential biomarker for diagnosing ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Ren
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenxiu Liu
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Yifan Li
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Bo Sun
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Yanran Li
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Fei Yang
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Hongfen Wang
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Mao Li
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Fang Cui
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Xusheng Huang
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China.
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Schofield JR. Autonomic neuropathy-in its many guises-as the initial manifestation of the antiphospholipid syndrome. Immunol Res 2018; 65:532-542. [PMID: 28116654 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-016-8889-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Autonomic disorders have previously been described in association with the antiphospholipid syndrome. The present study aimed to determine the clinical phenotype of patients in whom autonomic dysfunction was the initial manifestation of the antiphospholipid syndrome and to evaluate for autonomic neuropathy in these patients. This was a retrospective study of 22 patients evaluated at the University of Colorado who were found to have a disorder of the autonomic nervous system as the initial manifestation of antiphospholipid syndrome. All patients had persistent antiphospholipid antibody positivity and all patients who underwent skin biopsy were found to have reduced sweat gland nerve fiber density suggestive of an autonomic neuropathy. All patients underwent an extensive evaluation to rule out other causes for their autonomic dysfunction. Patients presented with multiple different autonomic disorders, including postural tachycardia syndrome, gastrointestinal dysmotility, and complex regional pain syndrome. Despite most having low-titer IgM antiphospholipid antibodies, 13 of the 22 patients (59%) suffered one or more thrombotic event, but pregnancy morbidity was minimal. Prothrombin-associated antibodies were helpful in confirming the diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome. We conclude that autonomic neuropathy may occur in association with antiphospholipid antibodies and may be the initial manifestation of the syndrome. Increased awareness of this association is important, because it is associated with a significant thrombotic risk and a high degree of disability. In addition, anecdotal experience has suggested that antithrombotic therapy and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy may result in significant clinical improvement in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill R Schofield
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus 12605 E. 16th Ave. B120, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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Novak P. Electrochemical skin conductance: a systematic review. Clin Auton Res 2017; 29:17-29. [PMID: 28951985 DOI: 10.1007/s10286-017-0467-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Currently available techniques for the evaluation of small fiber neuropathy and related sudomotor function remain suboptimal. Electrochemical skin conductance (ESC) has recently been introduced as a simple noninvasive and fast method for the detection of sudomotor dysfunction. The purpose of this review is to synthesize and appraise research using ESC measurements for sudomotor evaluation in adults. METHODS Electronic databases including MEDLINE and Google Scholar were searched (up to March 13, 2017). The search strategy included the following terms: "electrochemical skin conductance," "Sudoscan," and "EZSCAN." Evidence was graded according to defined quality indicators including (1) level of evidence; (2) use of established tests as reference tests (e.g., quantitative sudomotor axon test [QSART], sympathetic skin responses [SSR], thermoregulatory sweat test [TST], and skin biopsies to assess sudomotor and epidermal small fibers); (3) use of consecutive/non-consecutive subjects; and (4) study design (prospective/retrospective). RESULTS A total of 24 studies met the inclusion criteria. These were classified into preclinical, normative, comparative/diagnostic, or interventional. ESC measurement properties, diagnostic accuracy, and similarities to and differences from established tests were examined. CONCLUSIONS ESC measurements expand the arsenal of available tests for the evaluation of sudomotor dysfunction. The advantages and disadvantages of ESC versus established tests for evaluating sudomotor/small fiber function reviewed herein should be used as evidence to inform future guidelines on the assessment of sudomotor function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Novak
- Autonomic Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 1153 Centre Street, Boston, MA, 02103, USA.
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