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Zahra FT, Carey LM, Haslam B, Zoghi M. Is there a relationship between somatosensory impairment and the perception of pain in stroke survivors? An exploratory study. Int J Rehabil Res 2024:00004356-990000000-00093. [PMID: 38682376 DOI: 10.1097/mrr.0000000000000629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Pain and somatosensory impairments are commonly reported following stroke. This study investigated the relationship between somatosensory impairments (touch detection, touch discrimination and proprioceptive discrimination) and the reported presence and perception of any bodily pain in stroke survivors. Stroke survivors with somatosensory impairment (N = 45) completed the Weinstein Enhanced Sensory Test (WEST), Tactile Discrimination Test, and Wrist Position Sense Test for quantification of somatosensation in both hands and the McGill Pain Questionnaire, visual analog scale and the Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory (NPSI) for reporting presence and perception of pain. No relationship was observed between somatosensory impairment (affected contralesional hand) of touch detection, discriminative touch or proprioceptive discrimination with the presence or perception of pain. However, a weak to moderate negative relationship between touch detection in the affected hand (WEST) and perception of pain intensity (NPSI) was found, suggesting that stroke survivors with milder somatosensory impairment of touch detection, rather than severe loss, are likely to experience higher pain intensity [rho = -0.35; 95% confidence interval (CI), -0.60 to -0.03; P = 0.03]. Further, a moderate, negative relationship was found specifically with evoked pain (NPSI) and touch detection in the affected hand (rho = -0.43; 95% CI, -0.72 to -0.02; P = 0.03). In summary, our findings indicate a weak to moderate, albeit still uncertain, association, which prevents making a definitive conclusion. Nevertheless, our findings contribute to our understanding of the complexities surrounding the experience of pain in survivors of stroke and provide direction for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima-Tul Zahra
- Discipline of Occupational therapy, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University
| | - Leeanne M Carey
- Discipline of Occupational therapy, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University
- Neurorehabilitation and Recovery, Florey Institute , The University of Melbourne, Melbourne
| | - Brendon Haslam
- Discipline of Occupational therapy, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University
- Neurorehabilitation and Recovery, Florey Institute , The University of Melbourne, Melbourne
| | - Maryam Zoghi
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University, Victoria
- Department of Physiotherapy, Podiatry, and Prosthetics and Orthotics, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
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Zirpoli GR, Farhad K, Klein MC, Downs S, Klein MM, Oaklander AL. Initial validation of the Mass. General Neuropathy Exam Tool (MAGNET) for evaluation of distal small-fiber neuropathy. Muscle Nerve 2024; 69:185-198. [PMID: 38112169 PMCID: PMC10842781 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28013] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Diagnosis of small-fiber neuropathy (SFN) is hampered by its subjective symptoms and signs. Confirmatory testing is insufficiently available and expensive, so predictive examinations have value. However, few support the 2020 SFN consensus-case-definition requirements or were validated for non-diabetes neuropathies. Thus we developed the Massachusetts General Hospital Neuropathy Exam Tool (MAGNET) and measured diagnostic performance in 160 symptomatic patients evaluated for length-dependent SFN from any cause and 37 healthy volunteers. METHODS We compared prevalences of abnormalities (vital signs, pupil responses, lower-limb appearance, pin, light touch, vibration and position sensitivity, great-toe strength, muscle stretch reflexes), and validated diagnostic performance against objective SFN tests: lower-leg skin-biopsy epidermal neurite densities and autonomic function testing (AFT). Sensitivity/specificity, feasibility, test-retest and inter-rater reliability, and convergence with the Utah Early Neuropathy Scale were calculated. RESULTS Patients' ages averaged 48.5 ± 14.7 years and 70.6% were female. Causes of neuropathy varied, remaining unknown in 59.5%. Among the 46 with abnormal skin biopsies, the most prevalent abnormality was reduced pin sharpness at the toes (71.7%). Inter-rater reliability, test-retest reliability, and convergent validity excelled (range = 91.3-95.6%). Receiver operating characteristics comparing all symptomatic patients versus healthy controls indicated that a MAGNET threshold score of 14 maximized predictive accuracy for skin biopsies (0.74) and a 30 cut-off maximized accuracy for predicting AFT (0.60). Analyzing patients with any abnormal neuropathy-test results identified areas-under-the-curves of 0.87-0.89 for predicting a diagnostic result, accuracy = 0.80-0.89, and Youden's index = 0.62. Overall, MAGNET was 80%-85% accurate for stratifying patients with abnormal versus normal neuropathy test results. DISCUSSION MAGNET quickly generates research-quality metrics during clinical examinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary R. Zirpoli
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Khosro Farhad
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Madeleine C. Klein
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sean Downs
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Max M. Klein
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anne Louise Oaklander
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pathology (Neuropathology), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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Poddar S, Mondal H, Podder I. Aetiology, pathogenesis and management of neuropathic itch: A narrative review with recent updates. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol 2024; 90:5-18. [PMID: 37317726 DOI: 10.25259/ijdvl_846_2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Neuropathic itch is a relatively common yet under-reported cause of systemic pruritus. It is a debilitating condition often associated with pain, which impairs the patient's quality of life. Although much literature exists about renal and hepatic pruritus, there is a dearth of information and awareness about neuropathic itch. The pathogenesis of neuropathic itch is complex and can result from an insult at any point along the itch pathway, ranging from the peripheral receptors and nerves until the brain. There are several causes of neuropathic itch, many of which do not produce any skin lesions and are thus, often missed. A detailed history and clinical examination are necessary for the diagnosis, while laboratory and radiologic investigations may be needed in select cases. Several therapeutic strategies currently exist involving both non-pharmacological and pharmacological measures, the latter including topical, systemic, and invasive options. Further research is ongoing to clarify its pathogenesis and to design newer targeted therapies with minimal adverse effects. This narrative review highlights the current understanding of this condition, focusing on its causes, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management, along with newer investigational drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya Poddar
- Department of Dermatology, Asansol District Hospital, Asansol, West Bengal, India
| | - Himel Mondal
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Deoghar, Jharkhand, India
| | - Indrashis Podder
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine & Sagore Dutta Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
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Knoop I, Jones ASK, Gall N, Chilcot J, Pascoe W, Moss-Morris R. Validation of symptom measures in patients under investigation for postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS): The Orthostatic Grading Scale (OGS) and the Symptom Screen for Small-fiber Polyneuropathy (SSS). Auton Neurosci 2023; 250:103130. [PMID: 37976608 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2023.103130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) presents with a range of poorly delineated symptoms across several domains. There is an urgent need for standardized symptom reporting in POTS, but a lack of validated symptom burden instruments. Our aim was to evaluate the psychometric properties of two symptom burden measures: the Orthostatic Grading Scale (OGS) and the Symptom Screen for Small-Fiber Polyneuropathy (SSS), in patients under investigation for suspected POTS. DESIGN Psychometric validation study. METHODS Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) tested the factor structure of the SSS and OGS completed by 149 patients under investigation for POTS. Scale reliability and validity were assessed. The uni-dimensionality of the SSS was assessed through principal component analysis (PCA). RESULTS CFA of the OGS revealed that a 1-factor structure had adequate fit. CFA of the SSS revealed that a 5-factor structure had generally appropriate fit supporting the originally proposed 5 factors (1: Gastrointestinal, 2: Somatosensory, 3: Miscellaneous, 4: Microvascular, and 5: Urological). In addition, the SSS demonstrated sufficient uni-dimensionality in the PCA, warranting use of a single total score. Omega coefficients of both measures indicated satisfactory internal reliability (0.668-0.931). Correlations with related constructs (distress (K10 score), r = 0.317-0.404, p < 0.001) and heart rate indices (with the OGS, r = 0.211-0.294, p < 0.05) suggested sound convergent and divergent validity. CONCLUSIONS Initial evidence suggests that the OGS and SSS have good psychometric properties for use in populations with suspected and confirmed POTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Knoop
- Health Psychology Section, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Annie S K Jones
- Health Psychology Section, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas Gall
- Cardiology Department, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Chilcot
- Health Psychology Section, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - William Pascoe
- Health Psychology Section, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Rona Moss-Morris
- Health Psychology Section, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom.
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Viceconti A, Geri T, De Luca S, Maselli F, Rossettini G, Testa M. Body perception distortions correlate with neuropathic features in Italian fibromyalgic patients: Findings from a self-administered online survey. Musculoskelet Sci Pract 2022; 60:102570. [PMID: 35594609 DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2022.102570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies found that fibromyalgia may underly neuropathic conditions affecting the peripheral nervous system. Moreover, clinical observations and preliminary reports suggest the existence of body perceptions distortions (BPD) like "phantom" feelings of swollen hands and feet, similar to those complained by patients with other neuropathic conditions or subjected to experimental procedures affecting the peripheral nervous system. OBJECTIVES To investigate the prevalence of self-reported BPD in Italian people with fibromyalgia through an online survey administered with the help of the associations of patients distributed nationwide. DESIGN cross-sectional study. METHOD A nationwide sample of 854 patients out of 1173 subjects enrolled was analyzed after the exclusion of comorbidities and incomplete answers. We additionally performed a post-hoc analysis comparing data of patients who entirely fulfilled the Fibromyalgia Research Criteria (FRC) (2011) for epidemiological studies with respect to those only partially responding to the FRC (FM-). RESULTS Nearly 90% of subjects reported neuropathic pain, symptoms potentially indicative for small-fiber pathology, and at least 1 BPD, while 2 or more BPD was reported in 64.1% of cases. Phantom feelings of "heaviness", "constriction", and "swelling" were the most frequently self-reported perceptual distortions. BPD were significant correlated with symptoms potentially indicative for small-fiber pathology, neuropathic pain, disability, painful sites, and severity of fibromyalgia (0.20<τ-b<0.33). CONCLUSIONS Our preliminary findings highlighted that the phenomenon of self-reported BPD in patients with fibromyalgia correlated with neuropathic symptoms. If these results will be confirmed in future studies BPD may be potentially considered as part of the clinical picture of fibromyalgia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonello Viceconti
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Infantile Sciences (DINOGMI), University of Genova, Campus of Savona, SV, Italy.
| | - Tommaso Geri
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Infantile Sciences (DINOGMI), University of Genova, Campus of Savona, SV, Italy
| | - Simone De Luca
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Infantile Sciences (DINOGMI), University of Genova, Campus of Savona, SV, Italy
| | - Filippo Maselli
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Infantile Sciences (DINOGMI), University of Genova, Campus of Savona, SV, Italy
| | - Giacomo Rossettini
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Infantile Sciences (DINOGMI), University of Genova, Campus of Savona, SV, Italy; School of Physiotherapy, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marco Testa
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Infantile Sciences (DINOGMI), University of Genova, Campus of Savona, SV, Italy
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Oaklander AL, Mills AJ, Kelley M, Toran LS, Smith B, Dalakas MC, Nath A. Peripheral Neuropathy Evaluations of Patients With Prolonged Long COVID. NEUROLOGY(R) NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2022; 9:9/3/e1146. [PMID: 35232750 PMCID: PMC8889896 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000001146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Recovery from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection appears exponential, leaving a tail of patients reporting various long COVID symptoms including unexplained fatigue/exertional intolerance and dysautonomic and sensory concerns. Indirect evidence links long COVID to incident polyneuropathy affecting the small-fiber (sensory/autonomic) axons. METHODS We analyzed cross-sectional and longitudinal data from patients with World Health Organization (WHO)-defined long COVID without prior neuropathy history or risks who were referred for peripheral neuropathy evaluations. We captured standardized symptoms, examinations, objective neurodiagnostic test results, and outcomes, tracking participants for 1.4 years on average. RESULTS Among 17 patients (mean age 43.3 years, 69% female, 94% Caucasian, and 19% Latino), 59% had ≥1 test interpretation confirming neuropathy. These included 63% (10/16) of skin biopsies, 17% (2/12) of electrodiagnostic tests and 50% (4/8) of autonomic function tests. One patient was diagnosed with critical illness axonal neuropathy and another with multifocal demyelinating neuropathy 3 weeks after mild COVID, and ≥10 received small-fiber neuropathy diagnoses. Longitudinal improvement averaged 52%, although none reported complete resolution. For treatment, 65% (11/17) received immunotherapies (corticosteroids and/or IV immunoglobulins). DISCUSSION Among evaluated patients with long COVID, prolonged, often disabling, small-fiber neuropathy after mild SARS-CoV-2 was most common, beginning within 1 month of COVID-19 onset. Various evidence suggested infection-triggered immune dysregulation as a common mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Louise Oaklander
- From the Nerve Unit (A.L.O., A.J.M.), Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston; Department of Pathology (Neuropathology) (A.L.O.), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Neurology (M.K.), Dell Medical School, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas; Department of Neurology (L.S.T.), Confluence Health, Wenatchee; Section of Infections of the Nervous System (B.S., A.N.), National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland; and Neuromuscular Division (M.C.D.), Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Greece.
| | - Alexander J Mills
- From the Nerve Unit (A.L.O., A.J.M.), Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston; Department of Pathology (Neuropathology) (A.L.O.), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Neurology (M.K.), Dell Medical School, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas; Department of Neurology (L.S.T.), Confluence Health, Wenatchee; Section of Infections of the Nervous System (B.S., A.N.), National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland; and Neuromuscular Division (M.C.D.), Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Greece
| | - Mary Kelley
- From the Nerve Unit (A.L.O., A.J.M.), Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston; Department of Pathology (Neuropathology) (A.L.O.), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Neurology (M.K.), Dell Medical School, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas; Department of Neurology (L.S.T.), Confluence Health, Wenatchee; Section of Infections of the Nervous System (B.S., A.N.), National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland; and Neuromuscular Division (M.C.D.), Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Greece
| | - Lisa S Toran
- From the Nerve Unit (A.L.O., A.J.M.), Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston; Department of Pathology (Neuropathology) (A.L.O.), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Neurology (M.K.), Dell Medical School, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas; Department of Neurology (L.S.T.), Confluence Health, Wenatchee; Section of Infections of the Nervous System (B.S., A.N.), National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland; and Neuromuscular Division (M.C.D.), Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Greece
| | - Bryan Smith
- From the Nerve Unit (A.L.O., A.J.M.), Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston; Department of Pathology (Neuropathology) (A.L.O.), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Neurology (M.K.), Dell Medical School, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas; Department of Neurology (L.S.T.), Confluence Health, Wenatchee; Section of Infections of the Nervous System (B.S., A.N.), National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland; and Neuromuscular Division (M.C.D.), Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Greece
| | - Marinos C Dalakas
- From the Nerve Unit (A.L.O., A.J.M.), Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston; Department of Pathology (Neuropathology) (A.L.O.), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Neurology (M.K.), Dell Medical School, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas; Department of Neurology (L.S.T.), Confluence Health, Wenatchee; Section of Infections of the Nervous System (B.S., A.N.), National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland; and Neuromuscular Division (M.C.D.), Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Greece
| | - Avindra Nath
- From the Nerve Unit (A.L.O., A.J.M.), Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston; Department of Pathology (Neuropathology) (A.L.O.), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Neurology (M.K.), Dell Medical School, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas; Department of Neurology (L.S.T.), Confluence Health, Wenatchee; Section of Infections of the Nervous System (B.S., A.N.), National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland; and Neuromuscular Division (M.C.D.), Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Greece
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Batres-Marroquín AB, Medina-García AC, Vargas Guerrero A, Barrera-Villalpando MI, Martínez-Lavín M, Martínez-Martínez LA. Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown on Fibromyalgia Symptoms. J Clin Rheumatol 2022; 28:e289-e291. [PMID: 33264250 PMCID: PMC8745953 DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0000000000001685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Manuel Martínez-Lavín
- From the Departamento de Reumatología del Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez
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Mozafarpour S, Chen A, Paredes Mogica JA, Nwaoha N, Farhad K, Morrison SM, De EJB. Urodynamic autonomic bladder dysfunction in women with complex chronic pelvic pain is associated with small fiber polyneuropathy. Neurourol Urodyn 2021; 41:482-489. [PMID: 34936711 DOI: 10.1002/nau.24858] [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: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Small fiber neuropathy/polyneuropathy (SFN) has been found to be present in 64% of complex (refractory or multisystem) chronic pelvic pain (CPP) patients. The small fiber dysfunction seen in SFN can negatively impact autonomic control of micturition in addition to pain. This study investigated the clinical association of autonomic dysfunction (detrusor underactivity and primary bladder neck obstruction [BNO]) on video urodynamics (VUDS) with SFN in patients with CPP. METHODS This was a retrospective observational study, querying data from patients with complex CPP. Inclusion criteria were: the presence of complex (refractory or multisystem) CPP, and completion of both (1) subspecialty autonomic neurology evaluation for SFN and (2) high-quality VUDS performed according to ICS standards. Autonomic bladder dysfunction (BNO or detrusor underactivity) on VUDS was compared to the presence of SFN. RESULTS Thirty-two female patients with complex CPP met criteria. Of the 32, 23 (72%) were found to have SFN. Patient with autonomic bladder dysfunction (BNO or detrusor underactivity) were more likely to have SFN (OR = 9.5 [95% CI: 1.641, 55.00], p = 0.007). Post-void residual volume was higher in the SFN group (p = 0.011 [95% CI: 13.12, 94.0]) and symptoms of urge urinary incontinence were more likely to be present (p = 0.000 [95% CI: -3.4, -1.25]). CONCLUSIONS Patients with complex CPP with autonomic bladder dysfunction are more likely to have SFN. This suggests patients with complex CPP should be considered for diagnosis and treatment of SFN, particularly if BNO or detrusor underactivity is noted on VUDS evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annie Chen
- Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | | | - Ngozi Nwaoha
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Khosro Farhad
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Elise J B De
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Ramírez M, Guerra-Juárez A, Miyake DY, Sebastian-Arellano C, Estrada-Mata AG, González-Moyotl NJ, Rodríguez-Aguayo AM, Martínez-Lavin M, Martínez-Martínez LA. Correlation Between Corneal Nerve Density and Symptoms of Small Fiber Neuropathy in Patients With Fibromyalgia: The Confounding Role of Severe Anxiety or Depression. J Clin Rheumatol 2021; 27:e606-e608. [PMID: 33044388 DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0000000000001592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A consistent line of investigation proposes fibromyalgia as a dysautonomia-associated neuropathic pain syndrome. Comorbid anxiety or depression amplifies fibromyalgia symptoms. The recent recognition of small fiber neuropathy in fibromyalgia patients supports the neuropathic nature of the illness. Corneal confocal microscopy accurately identifies small nerve fiber pathology. The newly developed Small-Fiber Symptom Survey captures the spectrum of small fiber neuropathy symptoms. We aimed to correlate corneal nerve density with different fibromyalgia disease severity questionnaires including the Small-Fiber Symptom Survey. We defined the possible confounding role of comorbid anxiety or depression severity in the clinical-pathological association. METHODS This is a case series of 28 women with fibromyalgia. A single ophthalmologist quantified corneal subbasal plexus nerve density. Corneal innervation was correlated (Spearman ρ) with the following clinical questionnaires scores: Small-Fiber Symptom Survey, Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, and COMPASS-31 (Composite Autonomic Symptom Survey 31-Item Score). Validated inquiry forms assessed the comorbid anxiety and/or depression severity. RESULTS There were no clinical-pathological correlations in the group as a whole. In the subgroup of fibromyalgia women without severe anxiety or depression (n = 13), there was a strong negative correlation between corneal nerve density with the Small-Fiber Symptom Survey score (ρ = -0.771, p = 0.002) and COMPASS-31 score (ρ = -0.648, p = 0.017). Patients with profound anxiety or depression (n = 15) had more intense symptoms but had not clinical-pathological correlations. CONCLUSIONS Small fiber neuropathy and dysautonomia symptoms correlate with corneal denervation in women with fibromyalgia without severe anxiety or depression. This clinical-pathological association reinforces fibromyalgia as a dysautonomia-related neuropathic pain syndrome. Severe anxiety or depression distorts fibromyalgia symptoms. PRACTICAL POINT Corneal confocal microscopy may become a useful procedure to study fibromyalgia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Ramírez
- From the Servicio de Cornea del Hospital Sánchez Bulnes de la Asociación para Evitar la Ceguera en México
| | - Arturo Guerra-Juárez
- From the Servicio de Cornea del Hospital Sánchez Bulnes de la Asociación para Evitar la Ceguera en México
| | - Daniel-Yoshiro Miyake
- From the Servicio de Cornea del Hospital Sánchez Bulnes de la Asociación para Evitar la Ceguera en México
| | | | | | | | | | - Manuel Martínez-Lavin
- Departamento de Reumatología del Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Mexico City, Mexico
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10
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Gemignani F, Bellanova MF, Saccani E, Pavesi G. Non-length-dependent small fiber neuropathy: Not a matter of stockings and gloves. Muscle Nerve 2021; 65:10-28. [PMID: 34374103 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The clinical spectrum of small fiber neuropathy (SFN) encompasses manifestations related to the involvement of thinly myelinated A-delta and unmyelinated C fibers, including not only the classical distal phenotype, but also a non-length-dependent (NLD) presentation that can be patchy, asymmetrical, upper limb-predominant, or diffuse. This narrative review is focused on NLD-SFN. The diagnosis of NLD-SFN can be problematic, due to its varied and often atypical presentation, and diagnostic criteria developed for distal SFN are not suitable for NLD-SFN. The topographic pattern of NLD-SFN is likely related to ganglionopathy restricted to the small neurons of dorsal root ganglia. It is often associated with systemic diseases, but about half the time is idiopathic. In comparison with distal SFN, immune-mediated diseases are more common than dysmetabolic conditions. Treatment is usually based on the management of neuropathic pain. Disease-modifying therapy, including immunotherapy, may be effective in patients with identified causes. Future research on NLD-SFN is expected to further clarify the interconnected aspects of phenotypic characterization, diagnostic criteria, and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franco Gemignani
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria F Bellanova
- Laboratory of Neuromuscular Histopathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Elena Saccani
- Neurology Unit, Department of Specialized Medicine, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giovanni Pavesi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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11
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Bailly F. The challenge of differentiating fibromyalgia from small-fiber neuropathy in clinical practice. Joint Bone Spine 2021; 88:105232. [PMID: 34082128 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2021.105232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Fibromyalgia and small fibre neuropathy are two diseases leading to chronic widespread pain, and it is difficult to differentiate them in order to provide appropriate care. In this review, we will describe the pathophysiological and clinical differences between fibromyalgia and small fibre neuropathy. In fibromyalgia, pain is increased by dysregulation of central pain processing while small fibre neuropathy pain is related to loss or dysfunction of intraepidermal small nerve fibres. Higher pain intensity; stabbing pain and paraesthesia; allodynia; dry eyes/mouth; changed pattern or sweating on body; skin colour alterations/modifications; reduced hair/nail growth on lower extremities; warm or cold hypoesthesia could be more common in small fibre neuropathy whereas headache or temporo-mandibular disorder point toward fibromyalgia. Length-dependent distribution of pain is common in small fibre neuropathy but can also affect the whole body. Anxiety or depression are common in these two diseases, but post-traumatic stress disorder and physical or sexual abuse in childhood or adulthood suggest fibromyalgia. Inflammatory disease or musculoskeletal disease is frequently reported with fibromyalgia whereas metabolic disorders (especially diabetes mellitus), neurotoxic exposure, Sjogren's syndrome, sarcoidosis, HIV are the main diseases associated with small fibre neuropathy. Skin biopsy, quantitative sensory testing, laser evoked potentials, confocal corneal microscopy or electrochemical skin conductance can help to discriminate between fibromyalgia and small fibre neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Bailly
- Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière - Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Rheumatology department, Pain unit, 47-83, boulevard de l'hôpital, 75013 Paris, France.
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12
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Pereira MP, Wiegmann H, Agelopoulos K, Ständer S. Neuropathic Itch: Routes to Clinical Diagnosis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:641746. [PMID: 33732722 PMCID: PMC7959783 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.641746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic itch occurs due to damage of neurons of the peripheral or central nervous system. Several entities, including metabolic, neurodegenerative, orthopedic, infectious, autoimmune, malignant, and iatrogenic conditions, may affect the somatosensory system and induce neuropathic itch. Due to the complex nature of neuropathic itch, particularly concerning its clinical presentation and possible etiological factors, diagnostic work-up of this condition is challenging. A detailed medical history, especially in regard to the itch, and a comprehensive physical examination are relevant to detect characteristic signs and symptoms of neuropathic itch and to rule out other possible causes for chronic itch. Complementary diagnostic exams, especially laboratory tests, determination of the intraepidermal nerve fiber density via a skin biopsy and radiological examinations may be indicated to confirm the diagnosis of neuropathic itch and to identify underlying etiological factors. Functional assessments such as quantitative sensory testing, nerve conduction studies, evoked potentials, or microneurography may be considered in particular cases. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the diagnostic work-up recommended for patients with neuropathic itch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Pedro Pereira
- Department of Dermatology and Center for Chronic Pruritus, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Henning Wiegmann
- Department of Dermatology and Center for Chronic Pruritus, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Konstantin Agelopoulos
- Department of Dermatology and Center for Chronic Pruritus, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sonja Ständer
- Department of Dermatology and Center for Chronic Pruritus, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
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13
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Viceconti A, Geri T, De Luca S, Maselli F, Rossettini G, Sulli A, Schenone A, Testa M. Neuropathic pain and symptoms of potential small-fiber neuropathy in fibromyalgic patients: A national on-line survey. Joint Bone Spine 2021; 88:105153. [PMID: 33561533 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2021.105153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recent studies have highlighted that about 50% of fibromyalgic patients has a neuropathy of small- and/or large-fibers which could partially explain the puzzling symptoms of fibromyalgia (FM). Our aim was to investigate the estimated prevalence of self-reported neuropathic pain and small-fiber neuropathic symptoms (SFNS) indicative for the presence of small-fiber pathology in FM patients. METHODS A nationwide sample of patients was recruited to participate in an on-line survey. Two groups of patients were considered in post-hoc analysis: those positive (FM+) to the Fibromyalgia Research Criteria (FRC) and those complaining typical symptoms of fibromyalgia without fulfilling the FRC (FM-). RESULTS We collected data from 854 patients (749 FM+ and 105 FM-). Patients that scored=50/100 at the Neuropathic Pain Symptoms Inventory (NPSI), indicating severe neuropathic pain, were 57.3% (62.4% in FM+ and 21.0% in FM-). Around 46% of patients presented three or more SFNS that could be suggestive of small fiber pathology, the most frequent being dry eyes/mouth, allodynia, and dyshidrosis. The NPSI score showed significant moderate/strong associations with disability (Spearman's rho=0.61), pain (rho=0.66), stiffness level (rho=0.46), number of painful sites (rho=0.40), and SFNS (rho=0.44). Despite the high prevalence of neuropathic pain and other symptoms attributable to potential small and/or large fibers pathology, neurophysiologic investigations were performed in 43.6% of cases and skin punch biopsy only in 1.9% of patients enrolled, as well as the assumption of anti-neuropathic pain drugs (13.2%). CONCLUSIONS Our findings underscore the high estimated prevalence of neuropathic pain and SFNS in FM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonello Viceconti
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Infantile Sciences (DINOGMI), University of Genova, Campus of Savona, SV, Italy.
| | - Tommaso Geri
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Infantile Sciences (DINOGMI), University of Genova, Campus of Savona, SV, Italy
| | - Simone De Luca
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Infantile Sciences (DINOGMI), University of Genova, Campus of Savona, SV, Italy
| | - Filippo Maselli
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Infantile Sciences (DINOGMI), University of Genova, Campus of Savona, SV, Italy
| | - Giacomo Rossettini
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Infantile Sciences (DINOGMI), University of Genova, Campus of Savona, SV, Italy
| | - Alberto Sulli
- Research Laboratory and Academic Unit of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Angelo Schenone
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Infantile Sciences (DINOGMI), University of Genova, Campus of Savona, SV, Italy; IRCCS San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Marco Testa
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Infantile Sciences (DINOGMI), University of Genova, Campus of Savona, SV, Italy
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14
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Oaklander AL. Clinical significance of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (COVID-19) on peripheral small-fiber sensory neurons is unknown today. Pain 2020; 161:2431-2433. [PMID: 32826753 PMCID: PMC10034827 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Louise Oaklander
- Nerve Unit, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Pathology (Neuropathology), Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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15
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Boneparth A, Chen S, Horton DB, Moorthy LN, Farquhar I, Downs HM, Lee H, Oaklander AL. Epidermal Neurite Density in Skin Biopsies From Patients With Juvenile Fibromyalgia. J Rheumatol 2020; 48:575-578. [PMID: 32801135 DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.200378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fibromyalgia (FM) is defined by idiopathic, chronic, widespread musculoskeletal pain. In adults with FM, a metaanalysis of lower-leg skin biopsy demonstrated 45% pooled prevalence of abnormally low epidermal neurite density (END). END < 5th centile of the normal distribution is the consensus diagnostic threshold for small-fiber neuropathy. However, the clinical significance of END findings in FM is unknown. Here, we examine the prevalence of small-fiber pathology in juvenile FM, which has not been studied previously. METHODS We screened 21 patients aged 13-20 years with FM diagnosed by pediatric rheumatologists. Fifteen meeting the American College of Rheumatology criteria (modified for juvenile FM) underwent lower-leg measurements of END and completed validated questionnaires assessing pain, functional disability, and dysautonomia symptoms. The primary outcome was proportion of FM patients with END < 5th centile of age/sex/race-based laboratory norms. Cases were systematically matched by ethnicity, race, sex, and age to a group of previously biopsied healthy adolescents with selection blinded to biopsy results. All 23 controls matching demographic criteria were included. RESULTS Among biopsied juvenile FM patients, 53% (8/15) had END < 5th centile vs 4% (1/23) of healthy controls (P < 0.001). Mean patient END was 273/mm2 skin surface (95% CI 198-389) vs 413/mm2 (95% CI 359-467, P < 0.001). As expected, patients with FM reported more functional disability, dysautonomia, and pain than healthy controls. CONCLUSION Abnormal END reduction is common in adolescents with FM, with similar prevalence in adults with FM. More studies are needed to fully characterize the significance of low END in FM and to elucidate the clinical implications of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Boneparth
- A. Boneparth, MD, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York;
| | - Shan Chen
- S. Chen, MD, PhD, Department of Neurology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Daniel B Horton
- D.B. Horton, MD, MSCE, Department of Pediatrics, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, and Rutgers Center for Pharmacoepidemiology and Treatment Science, Institute for Health, Health Care Policy, and Aging Research, New Brunswick, and Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - L Nandini Moorthy
- L.N. Moorthy, MD, MS, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Ian Farquhar
- I. Farquhar, BA, H.M. Downs, BS, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Masschusetts
| | - Heather M Downs
- I. Farquhar, BA, H.M. Downs, BS, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Masschusetts
| | - Hang Lee
- H. Lee, PhD, Biostatistics Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Anne Louise Oaklander
- A.L. Oaklander, MD, PhD, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, and Department of Pathology (Neuropathology), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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16
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Kang PB, McMillan HJ, Kuntz NL, Lehky TJ, Alter KE, Fitzpatrick KF, El Kosseifi C, Quijano-Roy S. Utility and practice of electrodiagnostic testing in the pediatric population: An AANEM consensus statement. Muscle Nerve 2020; 61:143-155. [PMID: 31724199 DOI: 10.1002/mus.26752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Nerve conduction studies and needle electromyography, collectively known as electrodiagnostic (EDX) studies, have been available for pediatric patients for decades, but the accessibility of this diagnostic modality and the approach to testing vary significantly depending on the physician and institution. The maturation of molecular diagnostic approaches and other diagnostic technologies such as neuromuscular ultrasound indicate that an analysis of current needs and practices for EDX studies in the pediatric population is warranted. The American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine convened a consensus panel to perform literature searches, share collective experiences, and develop a consensus statement. The panel found that electrodiagnostic studies continue to have high utility for the diagnosis of numerous childhood neuromuscular disorders, and that standardized approaches along with the use of high-quality reference values are important to maximize the diagnostic yield of these tests in infants, children, and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter B Kang
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida.,Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Hugh J McMillan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa and Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nancy L Kuntz
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Tanya J Lehky
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Katharine E Alter
- Functional and Applied Biomechanics Section, Rehabilitation Medicine, National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Kevin F Fitzpatrick
- Inova Neuroscience and Spine Institute, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Falls Church, Virginia
| | - Charbel El Kosseifi
- Centre de Référence Maladies Neuromusculaires, Service de Neurologie, Réanimation et Réeducation Pédiatriques, Hôpital Raymond Poincaré, Garches, France
| | - Susana Quijano-Roy
- Centre de Référence Maladies Neuromusculaires, Service de Neurologie, Réanimation et Réeducation Pédiatriques, Hôpital Raymond Poincaré, Garches, France
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17
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Kelley MA, Oaklander AL. Association of small-fiber polyneuropathy with three previously unassociated rare missense SCN9A variants. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PAIN-REVUE CANADIENNE DE LA DOULEUR 2020; 4:19-29. [PMID: 32719824 PMCID: PMC7384751 DOI: 10.1080/24740527.2020.1712652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background: Small fiber polyneuropathy (SFN) involves ectopic firing and degeneration of small-diameter, somatic/autonomic peripheral axons. Causes include diabetes, inflammation and rare pathogenic mutations, including in SCN9-11 genes that encode small fiber sodium channels. Aims: The aim of this study is to associate a new phenotype—immunotherapy-responsive SFN—with rare amino acid–substituting SCN9A variants and present potential explanations. Methods: A retrospective chart review of two Caucasians with skin biopsy confirmed SFN and rare SCN9A single nucleotide polymorphisms not previously reported in neuropathy. Results: A 47-year-old with 4 years of disabling widespread neuropathic pain and exertional intolerance had nerve- and skin biopsy–confirmed SFN, with blood tests revealing only high-titer antinuclear antibodies and low complement C4 consistent with B cell dysimmunity. Six years of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy markedly improved sensory and autonomic symptoms and normalized his neurite density. After whole exome sequencing revealed a potentially pathogenic SCN9A-A3734G variant, sodium channel blockers were tried. Herpes zoster left a 32-year-old with disabling exertional intolerance (“chronic fatigue syndrome”), postural syncope and tachycardia, arm and leg paresthesias, reduced sweating, and distal hairloss. Screening revealed antinuclear and potassium channel autoantibodies, so prednisone and then IVIg were prescribed with great benefit. During 4 years of immunotherapy, his symptoms and function improved, and all abnormal biomarkers (autonomic testing and skin biopsies) normalized. Whole exome sequencing then revealed two nearby compound heterozygous SCN9A variants that were computer-predicted to be deleterious. Conclusions: These cases newly associate three novel amino acid–substituting SCN9A variants with immunotherapy-responsive neuropathy. Only larger studies can determine whether these are contributory or coincidental, but they associate new variants with moderate or high likelihood of pathogenicity with a new highly related phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary A Kelley
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School at the University of Texas, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Anne Louise Oaklander
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Pathology (Neuropathology), Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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18
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Oaklander AL, Nolano M. Scientific Advances in and Clinical Approaches to Small-Fiber Polyneuropathy: A Review. JAMA Neurol 2019; 76:1240-1251. [PMID: 31498378 PMCID: PMC10021074 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2019.2917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Small-fiber polyneuropathy involves preferential damage to the thinly myelinated A-delta fibers, unmyelinated C sensory fibers, or autonomic or trophic fibers. Although this condition is common, most patients still remain undiagnosed and untreated because of lagging medical and public awareness of research advances. Chronic bilateral neuropathic pain, fatigue, and nausea are cardinal symptoms that can cause disability and dependence, including pain medication dependence. OBSERVATIONS Biomarker confirmation is recommended, given the nonspecificity of symptoms. The standard test involves measuring epidermal neurite density within a 3-mm protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5)-immunolabeled lower-leg skin biopsy. Biopsies and autonomic function testing confirm that small-fiber neuropathy not uncommonly affects otherwise healthy children and young adults, in whom it is often associated with inflammation or dysimmunity. A recent meta-analysis concluded that small-fiber neuropathy underlies 49% of illnesses labeled as fibromyalgia. Initially, patients with idiopathic small-fiber disorders should be screened by medical history and blood tests for potentially treatable causes, which are identifiable in one-third to one-half of patients. Then, secondary genetic testing is particularly important for familial and childhood cases. Treatable genetic causes include Fabry disease, transthyretin and primary systemic amyloidosis, hereditary sensory autonomic neuropathy-1, and ion-channel mutations. Immunohistopathologic evidence suggests that small-fiber dysfunction and denervation, especially of blood vessels, contributes to diverse symptoms, including postexertional malaise, postural orthostatic tachycardia, and functional gastrointestinal distress. Preliminary evidence implicates acute or chronic autoreactivity in some cases, particularly in female patients and otherwise healthy children and young adults. Different temporal patterns akin to Guillain-Barré syndrome and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy have been described; here, corticosteroids and immunoglobulins, which are often efficacious for inflammatory neuropathic conditions, are increasingly considered. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Because small fibers normally grow throughout life, improving contributory conditions may permit regrowth, slow progression, and prevent permanent damage. The prognosis is often hopeful for improving quality of life and sometimes for abatement or resolution, particularly in the young and otherwise healthy individuals. Examples include diabetic, infectious, toxic, genetic, and inflammatory causes. The current standard of care requires prompt diagnosis and treatment, particularly in children and young adults, to restore life trajectory. Consensus diagnostic and tracking metrics should be established to facilitate treatment trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Louise Oaklander
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston.,Department of Pathology (Neuropathology), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
| | - Maria Nolano
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University "Federico II" of Naples, Naples, Italy.,Skin Biopsy Laboratory, Department of Neurology, IRCCS, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, SpA SB, Telese Terme, Italy
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19
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Timmins HC, Li T, Kiernan MC, Horvath LG, Goldstein D, Park SB. Quantification of Small Fiber Neuropathy in Chemotherapy-Treated Patients. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2019; 21:44-58. [PMID: 31325646 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2019.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a major, dose-limiting side effect of treatment with neurotoxic cancer treatments which can result in long-term impairment. Deficits often reflect a large fiber polyneuropathy, however small fiber involvement resulting in neuropathic pain and autonomic dysfunction can occur. Quantification of both CIPN and small fiber neuropathy (SFN) remains a challenge. Accordingly, the prevalence and pathophysiology of small fiber neuropathy amongst cancer survivors remains poorly understood. This review will provide an overview of the clinical features of SFN associated with neurotoxic cancer treatments as well as a summary of current assessment tools for evaluating small fiber function, and their use in patients treated with neurotoxic chemotherapies. The continued development and utilization of novel measures quantifying small fiber involvement will help elucidate the pathophysiology underlying symptoms of CIPN and assist in informing treatment approaches. Accurately identifying subgroups of patients with neuropathic symptoms which may respond to existing pain medication may reduce the impact of CIPN and improve long-term quality of life as well as provide better categorization of patients for future clinical trials of neuroprotective and treatment strategies for CIPN. PERSPECTIVE: This review provides a critical analysis of SFN associated with neurotoxic cancer treatments and the assessment tools for evaluating small fiber dysfunction in cancer patients. Quantification of small fiber involvement in CIPN will assist in identifying subgroups of patients with neuropathic symptoms which may respond to existing pain medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah C Timmins
- Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Tiffany Li
- Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Matthew C Kiernan
- Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia; Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, Australia; Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Lisa G Horvath
- The Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, Australia; Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, Australia; Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - David Goldstein
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Australia; Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Susanna B Park
- Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia.
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20
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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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21
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Farhad K, Oaklander AL. Fibromyalgia and small-fiber polyneuropathy: What's in a name? Muscle Nerve 2018; 58:611-613. [PMID: 29938813 DOI: 10.1002/mus.26179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Khosro Farhad
- Nerve unit, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 275 Charles Street, Warren 801, Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, USA.,Department of Neurology, Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, Dover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Anne Louise Oaklander
- Nerve unit, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 275 Charles Street, Warren 801, Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, USA.,Department of Pathology (Neuropathology), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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22
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Steinhoff M, Schmelz M, Szabó IL, Oaklander AL. Clinical presentation, management, and pathophysiology of neuropathic itch. Lancet Neurol 2018; 17:709-720. [PMID: 30033061 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(18)30217-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Unlike conventional itch, neuropathic itch develops in normal skin from excess peripheral firing or dampened central inhibition of itch pathway neurons. Neuropathic itch is a symptom of the same central and peripheral nervous system disorders that cause neuropathic pain, such as sensory polyneuropathy, radiculopathy, herpes zoster, stroke, or multiple sclerosis, and lesion location affects symptoms more than aetiology. The causes of neuropathic itch are heterogeneous, and thus diagnosis is based primarily on recognising characteristic, disease-specific clinical presentations. However, the diagnosis of neuropathic itch is challenging, different subforms exist (eg, focal vs widespread, peripheral vs central), and the mechanisms of neuropathic itch are poorly understood, resulting in reduced treatment availability. Currently available strategies include treating or preventing causal diseases, such as diabetes or herpes zoster, and topical or systemic medications that calm excess neuronal firing. Discovery of itch mediators such as gastrin releasing peptide, receptors (eg, neurokinin-1), and pathways (eg, Janus kinases) might encourage much needed new research into targeted treatments of neuropathic itch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Steinhoff
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; HMC Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar; College of Medicine, Qatar University, Medical School, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Martin Schmelz
- Department of Experimental Pain Research, CBTM Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Imre Lőrinc Szabó
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Anne Louise Oaklander
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neuropathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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23
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24
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Liu X, Treister R, Lang M, Oaklander AL. IVIg for apparently autoimmune small-fiber polyneuropathy: first analysis of efficacy and safety. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2018; 11:1756285617744484. [PMID: 29403541 PMCID: PMC5791555 DOI: 10.1177/1756285617744484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Small-fiber polyneuropathy (SFPN) has various underlying causes, including associations with systemic autoimmune conditions. We have proposed a new cause; small-fiber-targeting autoimmune diseases akin to Guillain-Barré and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). There are no treatment studies yet for this 'apparently autoimmune SFPN' (aaSFPN), but intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), first-line for Guillain-Barré and CIDP, is prescribed off-label for aaSFPN despite very high cost. This project aimed to conduct the first systematic evaluation of IVIg's effectiveness for aaSFPN. METHODS With IRB approval, we extracted all available paper and electronic medical records of qualifying patients. Inclusion required having objectively confirmed SFPN, autoimmune attribution and other potential causes excluded. IVIg needed to have been dosed at ⩾1 g/kg/4 weeks for ⩾3 months. We chose two primary outcomes - changes in composite autonomic function testing (AFT) reports of SFPN and in ratings of pain severity - to capture objective as well as patient-prioritized outcomes. RESULTS Among all 55 eligible patients, SFPN had been confirmed by 3/3 nerve biopsies, 62% of skin biopsies, and 89% of composite AFT. Evidence of autoimmunity included 27% of patients having systemic autoimmune disorders, 20% having prior organ-specific autoimmune illnesses and 80% having ⩾1/5 abnormal blood-test markers associated with autoimmunity. A total of 73% had apparent small-fiber-restricted autoimmunity. IVIg treatment duration averaged 28 ± 25 months. The proportion of AFTs interpreted as indicating SFPN dropped from 89% at baseline to 55% (p ⩽ 0.001). Sweat production normalized (p = 0.039) and the other four domains all trended toward improvement. Among patients with pre-treatment pain ⩾3/10, severity averaging 6.3 ± 1.7 dropped to 5.2 ± 2.1 (p = 0.007). Overall, 74% of patients rated themselves 'improved' and their neurologists labeled 77% as 'IVIg responders'; 16% entered remissions that were sustained after IVIg withdrawal. All adverse events were expected; most were typical infusion reactions. The two moderate complications (3.6%) were vein thromboses not requiring discontinuation. The one severe event (1.8%), hemolytic anemia, remitted after IVIg discontinuation. CONCLUSION These results provide Class IV, real-world, proof-of-concept evidence suggesting that IVIg is safe and effective for rigorously selected SFPN patients with apparent autoimmune causality. They provide rationale for prospective trials, inform trial design and indirectly support the discovery of small-fiber-targeting autoimmune/inflammatory illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolei Liu
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, USA
- Department of Neurology, Dayi Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, China
| | - Roi Treister
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, USA; Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Magdalena Lang
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, USA
| | - Anne Louise Oaklander
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 275 Charles Street/Warren Building 310, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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Schinkel MG, Boerner KE, Chambers CT, McMurtry CM. Adult judgments of children’s pain and fear during venipuncture: The impact of adult and child sex. Can J Pain 2018; 2:292-301. [PMID: 35005386 PMCID: PMC8730662 DOI: 10.1080/24740527.2018.1537672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Low levels of agreement between caregiver and child reports of acute pain are well documented. Aims This study builds on prior research through exploring factors that may contribute to low caregiver–child concordance. Specifically, the study examined the influence of adult and child sex on adult judgments of children’s pain and fear during venipuncture and examined whether trait parental pain catastrophizing, empathy, and anxiety predicted judgment accuracy. Methods Using a judgment study paradigm, 160 participants (82 women) viewed 20 10-s video clips of children (10 boys, 10 girls) undergoing venipuncture and rated each child’s pain and fear. Adults’ ratings were compared to the children’s own ratings. Adults completed measures of trait parental pain catastrophizing, dispositional empathy, and trait anxiety. Results Adults accurately judged boys’ pain and fear significantly more often than that of girls. Further, adults underestimated and overestimated girls’ pain and overestimated girls’ fear significantly more frequently than that of boys. No effects of adult sex or adult by child sex interactions emerged. Parental pain catastrophizing significantly predicted underestimation of girls’ pain, with adults who engaged in more catastrophizing being less likely to underestimate girls’ pain. The variables did not predict adult judgment of child pain for women and men separately and did not predict adult judgment of child fear when examined by adult sex, child sex, or both combined. Conclusions Child sex influences adult pain and fear judgments, with girls being more vulnerable to inaccurate assessment than boys. Higher levels of parental pain catastrophizing may buffer against adults’ propensities to underestimate girls’ pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan G. Schinkel
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University , Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Centre for Pediatric Pain Research, IWK Health Centre , Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Katelynn E. Boerner
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University , Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Centre for Pediatric Pain Research, IWK Health Centre , Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Christine T. Chambers
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University , Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Centre for Pediatric Pain Research, IWK Health Centre , Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University , Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - C. Meghan McMurtry
- Department of Psychology, University of Guelph , Guelph, Ontario, Canada
- Pediatric Chronic Pain Program, McMaster Children’s Hospital , Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University , London, Ontario, Canada
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Specific symptoms may discriminate between fibromyalgia patients with vs without objective test evidence of small-fiber polyneuropathy. Pain Rep 2017; 3:e633. [PMID: 29430562 PMCID: PMC5802321 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000000633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2017] [Revised: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In patients with fibromyalgia, tingling and numbness sensations and symptoms indicative of peripheral autonomic dysfunction might be useful in predicting objective diagnosis of small-fiber polyneuropathy. Introduction: Multiple studies now confirm that ∼40% of patients with fibromyalgia syndrome meet diagnostic criteria for small-fiber polyneuropathy (SFPN) and have objective pathologic or physiologic evidence of SFPN, whereas 60% do not. Given possibilities that tens or hundreds of millions globally could have SFPN, developing screening tools becomes important. Objectives: This analysis explored whether specific symptoms might help distinguish these fibromyalgia endophenotypes. Methods: With institutional review board approval, all adults tested for SFPN by distal-leg skin biopsy or autonomic function testing at Massachusetts General Hospital in 2014 to 2015 were queried about symptoms. Inclusion required a physician's fibromyalgia syndrome diagnosis plus meeting the American College of Rheumatology 2010 Fibromyalgia Criteria. The primary outcome was the validated Small-fiber Symptom Survey, which captures severity of all known SFPN-associated symptoms. The Composite Autonomic Symptom Score-31, Short-Form Health Survey-36, and Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaires provided secondary outcomes. Results: Among the 39 participants, 14 had test-confirmed SFPN (SFPN+) and 25 did not (SFPN−). Their pain severity did not differ. Paresthesias (“tingling”) were different (worse) in the SFPN+ group (3.14 ± 0.9 vs 2.28 ± 1.1; P = 0.16). Their component subscore for dysautonomia symptoms was also worse (10.42 ± 4.0 vs 7.16 ± 4.0; P = 0.019). Receiver operating characteristic analyses revealed that each item had fair diagnostic utility in predicting SFPN, with areas under the curve of 0.729. No secondary questionnaires discriminated significantly. Conclusion: Among patients with fibromyalgia, most symptoms overlap between those with or without confirmed SFPN. Symptoms of dysautonomia and paresthesias may help predict underlying SFPN. The reason to screen for SFPN is because—unlike fibromyalgia—its medical causes can sometimes be identified and definitively treated or cured.
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Terkelsen AJ, Karlsson P, Lauria G, Freeman R, Finnerup NB, Jensen TS. The diagnostic challenge of small fibre neuropathy: clinical presentations, evaluations, and causes. Lancet Neurol 2017; 16:934-944. [DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(17)30329-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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