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Babakoohi S, Sipe A, Zamanifekri M, Hunter WD. Small fiber neuropathy in epidermolysis bullosa simplex. JAAD Case Rep 2024; 48:23-25. [PMID: 38741659 PMCID: PMC11090054 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdcr.2024.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shahab Babakoohi
- Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Amber Sipe
- Caromont Neurology, Gastonia, North Carolina
| | | | - William D. Hunter
- Neuroscience & Spine Center of the Carolinas, Gastonia, North Carolina
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2
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Scheliga S, Dohrn MF, Habel U, Lampert A, Rolke R, Lischka A, van den Braak N, Spehr M, Jo HG, Kellermann T. Reduced Gray Matter Volume and Cortical Thickness in Patients With Small-Fiber Neuropathy. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2024; 25:104457. [PMID: 38211845 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Small-fiber neuropathy (SFN) is defined by degeneration or dysfunction of peripheral sensory nerve endings. Central correlates have been identified on the level of gray matter volume (GMV) and cortical thickness (CT) changes. However, across SFN etiologies knowledge about a common structural brain signature is still lacking. Therefore, we recruited 26 SFN patients and 25 age- and sex-matched healthy controls to conduct voxel-based- and surface-based morphometry. Across all patients, we found reduced GMV in widespread frontal regions, left caudate, insula and superior parietal lobule. Surface-based morphometry analysis revealed reduced CT in the right precentral gyrus of SFN patients. In a region-based approach, patients had reduced GMV in the left caudate. Since pathogenic gain-of-function variants in voltage-gated sodium channels (Nav) have been associated with SFN pathophysiology, we explored brain morphological patterns in a homogenous subsample of patients carrying rare heterozygous missense variants. Whole brain- and region-based approaches revealed GMV reductions in the bilateral caudate for Nav variant carriers. Further research is needed to analyze the specific role of Nav variants for structural brain alterations. Together, we conclude that SFN patients have specific GMV and CT alterations, potentially forming potential new central biomarkers for this condition. Our results might help to better understand underlying or compensatory mechanisms of chronic pain perception in the future. PERSPECTIVE: This study reveals structural brain changes in small-fiber neuropathy (SFN) patients, particularly in frontal regions, caudate, insula, and parietal lobule. Notably, individuals with SFN and specific Nav variants exhibit bilateral caudate abnormalities. These findings may serve as potential central biomarkers for SFN and provide insights into chronic pain perception mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Scheliga
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Maike F Dohrn
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ute Habel
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany; Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine: JARA-Institute Brain Structure Function Relationship (INM 10), Research Center Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Angelika Lampert
- Institute of Neurophysiology, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Roman Rolke
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Annette Lischka
- Institute for Human Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Marc Spehr
- Department of Chemosensation, RWTH Aachen University, Institute for Biology II, Aachen, Germany
| | - Han-Gue Jo
- School of Computer Information and Communication Engineering, Kunsan National University, Gunsan, South Korea
| | - Thilo Kellermann
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany; Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine: JARA-Institute Brain Structure Function Relationship (INM 10), Research Center Jülich, Jülich, Germany
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3
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Liao V, Cornman HL, Ma E, Kwatra SG. Prurigo nodularis: new insights into pathogenesis and novel therapeutics. Br J Dermatol 2024; 190:798-810. [PMID: 38345154 PMCID: PMC11099982 DOI: 10.1093/bjd/ljae052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Prurigo nodularis (PN) is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by intensely pruritic nodules on the skin. Patients with PN suffer from an intractable itch-scratch cycle leading to impaired sleep, psychosocial distress and a significant disruption in quality of life. The pathogenesis of PN is associated with immune and neural dysregulation, mediated by inflammatory cytokines [such as interleukin (IL)-4, -13, -17, -22 and -31] and neuropeptides (such as substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide). There is a role for type 2 inflammation in PN in addition to T-helper (Th)17 and Th22-mediated inflammation. The neuroimmune feedback loop in PN involves neuropeptides released from nerve fibres that cause vasodilation and further recruitment of inflammatory cells. Inflammatory cells, particularly mast cells and eosinophils, degranulate and release neurotoxins, as well as nerve growth factor, which may contribute to the neuronal hyperplasia seen in the dermis of patients with PN and neural sensitization. Recent studies have also indicated underlying genetic susceptibility to PN in addition to environmental factors, the existence of various disease endotypes centred around degrees of type 2 inflammation or underlying myelopathy or spinal disc disease, and significant race and ethnicity-based differences, with African Americans having densely fibrotic skin lesions. Dupilumab became the first US Food and Drug Administration-approved therapeutic for PN, and there are several other agents currently in development. The anti-IL-31 receptor A inhibitor nemolizumab is in late-stage development with positive phase III data reported. In addition, the oral Janus kinase (JAK) 1 inhibitors, abrocitinib and povorcitinib, are in phase II trials while a topical JAK1/2 inhibitor, ruxolitinib, is in phase III studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviane Liao
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hannah L Cornman
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Emily Ma
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shawn G Kwatra
- Department of Dermatology
- Maryland Itch Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Meyer Zu Altenschildesche C, Egenolf N, Lischka A, Üçeyler N. [Sequence variants of unknown significance in small fiber neuropathy : Characterization of a heterogeneous patient population]. Schmerz 2024:10.1007/s00482-024-00811-3. [PMID: 38713210 DOI: 10.1007/s00482-024-00811-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In almost half of patients suffering from small fiber neuropathies (SFN), the etiology remains elusive. For these patients with "idiopathic SFN", symptomatic analgesic therapy is the only option. Reports on a potential genetic background of neuropathic pain syndromes are increasing and particularly in SFN patients, several genetic variants were found mainly located in genes encoding voltage-gated sodium channels. Although up to 30% of SFN patients show genetic alterations, most of these remain of "unknown pathogenic significance" and little is known about "genetic SFN". OBJECTIVES The study aimed to determine clinical characteristics of SFN patients carrying a rare genetic variant of unknown significance in pain-associated genes. MATERIALS AND METHODS From 2015 to 2020, 66 patients with primarily idiopathic SFN were examined and rare gene variants of unknown significance detected in 13/66 (20%) of these. A detailed medical history with focus on pain was recorded and patients filled in standardized questionnaires to assess physical and emotional burden due to pain. RESULTS The authors found 13/66 (20%) patients with rare variants of unknown significance located in pain-associated genes who reported pain refractory to analgesic treatment, a higher number of external factors influencing clinical symptoms, and a higher level of physical impairment and emotional stress due to pain compared with patients without such genetic variants. CONCLUSIONS Early genetic assessment is recommended to optimize the management of patients with potentially hereditary SFN. Early access to rehabilitation and mental support as well as a consequent elimination of external triggering factors should be granted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nadine Egenolf
- Neurologische Klinik des Universitätsklinikums Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, 97080, Würzburg, Deutschland
| | - Annette Lischka
- Institut für Humangenetik und Genommedizin, Universitätsklinikum RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Deutschland
| | - Nurcan Üçeyler
- Neurologische Klinik des Universitätsklinikums Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, 97080, Würzburg, Deutschland.
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5
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Baka P, Steenken L, Escolano-Lozano F, Steffen F, Papagianni A, Sommer C, Pogatzki-Zahn E, Hirsch S, Protopapa M, Bittner S, Birklein F. Studying serum neurofilament light chain levels as a potential new biomarker for small fiber neuropathy. Eur J Neurol 2024; 31:e16192. [PMID: 38189534 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Diagnosing small fiber neuropathies can be challenging. To address this issue, whether serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) could serve as a potential biomarker of damage to epidermal Aδ- and C-fibers was tested. METHODS Serum NfL levels were assessed in 30 patients diagnosed with small fiber neuropathy and were compared to a control group of 19 healthy individuals. Electrophysiological studies, quantitative sensory testing and quantification of intraepidermal nerve fiber density after skin biopsy were performed in both the proximal and distal leg. RESULTS Serum NfL levels were not increased in patients with small fiber neuropathy compared to healthy controls (9.1 ± 3.9 and 9.4 ± 3.8, p = 0.83) and did not correlate with intraepidermal nerve fiber density at the lateral calf or lateral thigh or with other parameters of small fiber impairment. CONCLUSION Serum NfL levels cannot serve as a biomarker for small fiber damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panoraia Baka
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Livia Steenken
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Fabiola Escolano-Lozano
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Falk Steffen
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | | | - Claudia Sommer
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Esther Pogatzki-Zahn
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Silke Hirsch
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Maria Protopapa
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Stefan Bittner
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Frank Birklein
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
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Kushibiki H, Mizukami H, Osonoi S, Takeuchi Y, Sasaki T, Ogasawara S, Wada K, Midorikawa S, Ryuzaki M, Wang Z, Yamada T, Yamazaki K, Tarusawa T, Tanba T, Mikami T, Matsubara A, Ishibashi Y, Hakamada K, Nakaji S. Tryptophan metabolism and small fibre neuropathy: a correlation study. Brain Commun 2024; 6:fcae103. [PMID: 38618209 PMCID: PMC11010654 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcae103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Small nerve fibres located in the epidermis sense pain. Dysfunction of these fibres decreases the pain threshold known as small fibre neuropathy. Diabetes mellitus is accompanied by metabolic changes other than glucose, synergistically eliciting small fibre neuropathy. These findings suggest that various metabolic changes may be involved in small fibre neuropathy. Herein, we explored the correlation between pain sensation and changes in plasma metabolites in healthy Japanese subjects. The pain threshold evaluated from the intraepidermal electrical stimulation was used to quantify pain sensation in a total of 1021 individuals in the 2017 Iwaki Health Promotion Project. Participants with a pain threshold evaluated from the intraepidermal electrical stimulation index <0.20 mA were categorized into the pain threshold evaluated from the intraepidermal electrical stimulation index-low group (n = 751); otherwise, they were categorized into the pain threshold evaluated from the intraepidermal electrical stimulation index-high group (n = 270). Metabolome analysis of plasma was conducted using capillary electrophoresis time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The metabolite set enrichment analysis revealed that the metabolism of tryptophan was significantly correlated with the pain threshold evaluated from the intraepidermal electrical stimulation index in all participants (P < 0.05). The normalized level of tryptophan was significantly decreased in participants with a high pain threshold evaluated from the intraepidermal electrical stimulation index. In addition to univariate linear regression analyses, the correlation between tryptophan concentration and the pain threshold evaluated from the intraepidermal electrical stimulation index remained significant after adjustment for multiple factors (β = -0.07615, P < 0.05). These findings indicate that specific metabolic changes are involved in the deterioration of pain thresholds. Here, we show that abnormal tryptophan metabolism is significantly correlated with an elevated pain threshold evaluated from the intraepidermal electrical stimulation index in the Japanese population. This correlation provides insight into the pathology and clinical application of small fibre neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanae Kushibiki
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Biomedical Research Center, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Hiroki Mizukami
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Biomedical Research Center, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Sho Osonoi
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Biomedical Research Center, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Yuki Takeuchi
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Biomedical Research Center, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Takanori Sasaki
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Biomedical Research Center, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Saori Ogasawara
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Biomedical Research Center, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Kanichiro Wada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Shin Midorikawa
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Biomedical Research Center, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Masaki Ryuzaki
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Biomedical Research Center, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Zhenchao Wang
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Biomedical Research Center, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Takahiro Yamada
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Biomedical Research Center, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Keisuke Yamazaki
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Biomedical Research Center, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Takefusa Tarusawa
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Biomedical Research Center, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Taiyo Tanba
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Biomedical Research Center, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Mikami
- Innovation Center for Health Promotion, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Atsushi Matsubara
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Ishibashi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Kenichi Hakamada
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Shigeyuki Nakaji
- Department of Social Medicine, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
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Solbakken G, Løseth S, Frich JC, Dietrichs E, Ørstavik K. Small and large fiber neuropathy in adults with myotonic dystrophy type 1. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1375218. [PMID: 38504800 PMCID: PMC10949405 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1375218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is an inherited neuromuscular disorder that affects multiple organs. In this study, we investigated symptoms of pain and presence of small and large fiber neuropathy in the juvenile and adult form of DM1. Method Twenty genetically verified DM1 patients were included. Pain was assessed, and neurological examination and investigations of the peripheral nervous system by quantification of small nerve fibers in skin biopsy, quantitative sensory testing and nerve conduction studies were performed. Results from skin biopsies were compared to healthy controls. Result Seventeen patients reported chronic pain. Large and/or small fiber abnormalities were present in 50% of the patients. The intraepidermal nerve fiber density was significantly lower in the whole group of patients compared to healthy controls. Conclusion Small-fiber neuropathy might be an important cause of pain in DM1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gro Solbakken
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Neurology, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Health Trust, Drammen, Norway
| | - Sissel Løseth
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Jan C. Frich
- Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Espen Dietrichs
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Carroll AS, Park SB, Lin CSY, Taylor MS, Kwok F, Simon NG, Reilly MM, Kiernan MC, Vucic S. Axonal excitability as an early biomarker of nerve involvement in hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis. Clin Neurophysiol 2024; 159:81-95. [PMID: 38377648 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2024.01.006] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The treatment of hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis polyneuropathy (ATTRv-PN) has been revolutionised by genetic therapies, with dramatic improvements in patient outcomes. Whilst the optimal timing of treatment initiation remains unknown, early treatment is desirable. Consequently, the aim of the study was to develop biomarkers of early nerve dysfunction in ATTRv-PN. METHODS Ulnar motor and sensory axonal excitability studies were prospectively undertaken on 22 patients with pathogenic hereditary transthyretin amyloid (ATTRv) gene variants, 12 with large fibre neuropathy (LF+) and 10 without (LF-), with results compared to age- and sex-matched healthy controls. RESULTS In motor axons we identified a continuum of change from healthy controls, to LF- and LF+ ATTRv with progressive reduction in hyperpolarising threshold electrotonus (TEh40(10-20 ms): p = 0.04, TEh40(20-40 ms): p = 0.01 and TEh40(90-10 ms): p = 0.01), suggestive of membrane depolarisation. In sensory axons lower levels of subexcitability were observed on single (SubEx) and double pulse (SubEx2) recovery cycle testing in LF+ (SubEx: p = 0.015, SubEx2: p = 0.015, RC(2-1): p = 0.04) suggesting reduced nodal slow potassium conductance, which promotes sensory hyperexcitability, paraesthesia and pain. There were no differences in sensory or motor excitability parameters when comparing different ATTRv variants. CONCLUSIONS These progressive changes seen across the disease spectrum in ATTRv-PN suggest that axonal excitability has utility to identify early and progressive nerve dysfunction in ATTRv, regardless of genotype. SIGNIFICANCE Axonal excitability is a promising early biomarker of nerve dysfunction in ATTRv-PN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia S Carroll
- Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Translational Research Collective University of Sydney, and Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia; Westmead Amyloidosis Centre, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK.
| | - Susanna B Park
- Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Cindy S Y Lin
- Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Translational Research Collective University of Sydney, and Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mark S Taylor
- Westmead Amyloidosis Centre, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Fiona Kwok
- Westmead Amyloidosis Centre, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Neil G Simon
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mary M Reilly
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Matthew C Kiernan
- Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Translational Research Collective University of Sydney, and Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Steve Vucic
- Brain and Nerve Centre, Concord Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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9
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Gendre T, Lefaucheur JP, Nordine T, Baba-Amer Y, Authier FJ, Devaux J, Créange A. Characterizing Acute-Onset Small Fiber Neuropathy. NEUROLOGY(R) NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2024; 11:e200195. [PMID: 38170952 PMCID: PMC10766082 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000200195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Immune-mediated small fiber neuropathy (SFN) is increasingly recognized. Acute-onset SFN (AOSFN) remains poorly described. Herein, we report a series of AOSFN cases in which immune origins are debatable. METHODS We included consecutive patients with probable or definite AOSFN. Diagnosis of SFN was based on the NEURODIAB criteria. Acute onset was considered when the maximum intensity and extension of both symptoms and signs were reached within 28 days. We performed the following investigations: clinical examination, neurophysiologic assessment encompassing a nerve conduction study to rule out large fiber neuropathy, laser-evoked potentials (LEPs), warm detection thresholds (WDTs), electrochemical skin conductance (ESC), epidermal nerve fiber density (ENF), and patient serum reactivity against mouse sciatic nerve teased fibers, mouse dorsal root ganglion (DRG) sections, and cultured DRG. The serum reactivity of healthy subjects (n = 10) and diseased controls (n = 12) was also analyzed. Data on baseline characteristics, biological investigations, and disease course were collected. RESULTS Twenty patients presenting AOSFN were identified (60% women; median age: 44.2 years [interquartile range: 35.7-56.2]). SFN was definite in 18 patients (90%) and probable in 2 patients. A precipitating event was present in 16 patients (80%). The median duration of the progression phase was 14 days [5-28]. Pain was present in 17 patients (85%). Twelve patients (60%) reported autonomic involvement. The clinical pattern was predominantly non-length-dependent (85%). Diagnosis was confirmed by abnormal LEPs (60%), ENF (55%), WDT (39%), or ESC (31%). CSF analysis was normal in 5 of 5 patients. Antifibroblast growth factor 3 antibodies were positive in 4 of 18 patients (22%) and anticontactin-associated protein-2 antibodies in one patient. In vitro studies showed IgG immunoreactivity against nerve tissue in 14 patients (70%), but not in healthy subjects or diseased controls. Patient serum antibodies bound to unmyelinated fibers, Schwann cells, juxtaparanodes, paranodes, or DRG. Patients' condition improved after a short course of oral corticosteroids (3/3). Thirteen patients (65%) showed partial or complete recovery. Others displayed relapses or a chronic course. DISCUSSION AOSFN primarily presents as an acute, non-length-dependent, symmetric painful neuropathy with a variable disease course. An immune-mediated origin has been suggested based on in vitro immunohistochemical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thierry Gendre
- From the Service de Neurologie (T.G., A.C.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP; Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires Nord/Est/Ile-de-France (T.G., J.-P.L., T.N., F.-J.A., A.C.); Unité de Neurophysiologie Clinique (J.-P.L., T.N.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP; Unité de Recherche EA 4391 (J.-P.L., T.N., A.C.), Faculté de Santé, UniversitéParis Est Créteil; IMRB INSERM U955-Equipe 10 (Y.B.-A., F.-J.A.), UniversitéParis Est Créteil; Service d'Anatomo-Pathologie (F.-J.A.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP, Créteil; and Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (J.D.), Universitéde Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, France
| | - Jean-Pascal Lefaucheur
- From the Service de Neurologie (T.G., A.C.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP; Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires Nord/Est/Ile-de-France (T.G., J.-P.L., T.N., F.-J.A., A.C.); Unité de Neurophysiologie Clinique (J.-P.L., T.N.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP; Unité de Recherche EA 4391 (J.-P.L., T.N., A.C.), Faculté de Santé, UniversitéParis Est Créteil; IMRB INSERM U955-Equipe 10 (Y.B.-A., F.-J.A.), UniversitéParis Est Créteil; Service d'Anatomo-Pathologie (F.-J.A.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP, Créteil; and Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (J.D.), Universitéde Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, France
| | - Tarik Nordine
- From the Service de Neurologie (T.G., A.C.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP; Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires Nord/Est/Ile-de-France (T.G., J.-P.L., T.N., F.-J.A., A.C.); Unité de Neurophysiologie Clinique (J.-P.L., T.N.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP; Unité de Recherche EA 4391 (J.-P.L., T.N., A.C.), Faculté de Santé, UniversitéParis Est Créteil; IMRB INSERM U955-Equipe 10 (Y.B.-A., F.-J.A.), UniversitéParis Est Créteil; Service d'Anatomo-Pathologie (F.-J.A.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP, Créteil; and Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (J.D.), Universitéde Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, France
| | - Yasmine Baba-Amer
- From the Service de Neurologie (T.G., A.C.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP; Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires Nord/Est/Ile-de-France (T.G., J.-P.L., T.N., F.-J.A., A.C.); Unité de Neurophysiologie Clinique (J.-P.L., T.N.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP; Unité de Recherche EA 4391 (J.-P.L., T.N., A.C.), Faculté de Santé, UniversitéParis Est Créteil; IMRB INSERM U955-Equipe 10 (Y.B.-A., F.-J.A.), UniversitéParis Est Créteil; Service d'Anatomo-Pathologie (F.-J.A.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP, Créteil; and Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (J.D.), Universitéde Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, France
| | - François-Jérôme Authier
- From the Service de Neurologie (T.G., A.C.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP; Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires Nord/Est/Ile-de-France (T.G., J.-P.L., T.N., F.-J.A., A.C.); Unité de Neurophysiologie Clinique (J.-P.L., T.N.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP; Unité de Recherche EA 4391 (J.-P.L., T.N., A.C.), Faculté de Santé, UniversitéParis Est Créteil; IMRB INSERM U955-Equipe 10 (Y.B.-A., F.-J.A.), UniversitéParis Est Créteil; Service d'Anatomo-Pathologie (F.-J.A.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP, Créteil; and Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (J.D.), Universitéde Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, France
| | - Jérôme Devaux
- From the Service de Neurologie (T.G., A.C.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP; Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires Nord/Est/Ile-de-France (T.G., J.-P.L., T.N., F.-J.A., A.C.); Unité de Neurophysiologie Clinique (J.-P.L., T.N.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP; Unité de Recherche EA 4391 (J.-P.L., T.N., A.C.), Faculté de Santé, UniversitéParis Est Créteil; IMRB INSERM U955-Equipe 10 (Y.B.-A., F.-J.A.), UniversitéParis Est Créteil; Service d'Anatomo-Pathologie (F.-J.A.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP, Créteil; and Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (J.D.), Universitéde Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, France
| | - Alain Créange
- From the Service de Neurologie (T.G., A.C.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP; Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires Nord/Est/Ile-de-France (T.G., J.-P.L., T.N., F.-J.A., A.C.); Unité de Neurophysiologie Clinique (J.-P.L., T.N.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP; Unité de Recherche EA 4391 (J.-P.L., T.N., A.C.), Faculté de Santé, UniversitéParis Est Créteil; IMRB INSERM U955-Equipe 10 (Y.B.-A., F.-J.A.), UniversitéParis Est Créteil; Service d'Anatomo-Pathologie (F.-J.A.), CHU Henri Mondor APHP, Créteil; and Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (J.D.), Universitéde Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, France
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10
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Vidal-Petiot E, Pathak A, Azulay JP, Pavy-Le Traon A, Hanon O. Orthostatic hypotension: Review and expert position statement. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2024; 180:53-64. [PMID: 38123372 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2023.11.001] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Orthostatic hypotension is defined as a drop in systolic blood pressure of at least 20mmHg or a drop in diastolic blood pressure of at least 10mmHg within 3minutes of standing. It is a common disorder, especially in high-risk populations such as elderly subjects and patients with neurological diseases, and is associated with markedly increased morbidity and mortality. Its management can be challenging, particularly in cases where supine hypertension is associated with severe orthostatic hypotension. Education of the patient, non-pharmacological measures, and drug adaptation are the cornerstones of treatment. Pharmacological treatment should be individualized according to the severity, underlying cause, 24-hour blood pressure profile, and associated coexisting conditions. First-line therapies are midodrine and fludrocortisone, which may need to be combined for optimal care of severe cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Vidal-Petiot
- Service de physiologie, ESH Excellence Center, hôpital Bichat, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 75018 Paris, France; INSERM U1148, Université Paris-Cité and Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, LVTS, 75018 Paris, France.
| | - A Pathak
- Service de cardiologie, ESH Excellence Center, centre hospitalier Princesse Grace, 1, avenue Pasteur, 98000 Monaco, France
| | - J-P Azulay
- Service de neurologie et pathologie du mouvement, hôpital de la Timone, 13385 Marseille cedex 05, France
| | - A Pavy-Le Traon
- Service de neurologie, CHU de Toulouse, 31059 Toulouse cedex, France; UMR 1297, institut des maladies métaboliques et cardiovasculaires, Toulouse, France
| | - O Hanon
- Service de gériatrie, université Paris-Cité, EA4468, hôpital Broca, AP-HP, 75013 Paris, France
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11
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Falco P, Galosi E, Di Stefano G, Leone C, Di Pietro G, Tramontana L, De Stefano G, Litewczuk D, Esposito N, Truini A. Autonomic Small-Fiber Pathology in Patients With Fibromyalgia. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2024; 25:64-72. [PMID: 37524221 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2023.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
In this clinical and skin biopsy study, we aimed to investigate whether fibromyalgia-associated small-fiber pathology (SFP), consisting of an intraepidermal nerve fiber loss, implies damage of dermal autonomic nerve fibers and how this damage is associated with autonomic symptoms that patients with fibromyalgia syndrome experience. Using skin biopsy, we investigated intraepidermal nerve fiber density, piloerector muscle, and sweat gland nerve fiber density (SGNFD) in 138 participants, that is, 58 patients with fibromyalgia syndrome, 48 healthy subjects, and 32 patients with small-fiber neuropathy. In patients with fibromyalgia-associated SFP, we also investigated how the different skin biopsy variables correlated with autonomic symptoms, as assessed with the Composite Autonomic Symptom Score 31 questionnaire. We found that in patients with fibromyalgia-associated SFP, the piloerector muscle and SGNFD were lower than that in healthy subjects. However, the autonomic small-fiber damage had no correlation with autonomic symptoms severity. In patients with SFP, the intraepidermal, piloerector muscle, and SGNFD were higher than that in patients with small-fiber neuropathy. Our clinical and skin biopsy study shows that patients with fibromyalgia have a reduction of dermal autonomic small fibers paralleling the intraepidermal nerve fiber loss, thus indicating that SFP also implies autonomic small nerve fiber damage. However, the autonomic small-fiber damage we found had no correlation with the severity of autonomic symptoms, and thus its clinical impact is still undetermined. PERSPECTIVE: In patients with fibromyalgia, SFP also affects autonomic fibers. These novel data provide additional insights into the pathophysiology of fibromyalgia syndrome, highlighting the complex role of small-fiber damage in the clinical picture of fibromyalgia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Falco
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Galosi
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Caterina Leone
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Daniel Litewczuk
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Truini
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
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12
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Jänsch S, Evdokimov D, Egenolf N, Meyer zu Altenschildesche C, Kreß L, Üçeyler N. Distinguishing fibromyalgia syndrome from small fiber neuropathy: a clinical guide. Pain Rep 2024; 9:e1136. [PMID: 38283649 PMCID: PMC10811691 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000001136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) and small fiber neuropathy (SFN) are distinct pain conditions that share commonalities and may be challenging as for differential diagnosis. Objective To comprehensively investigate clinical characteristics of women with FMS and SFN to determine clinically applicable parameters for differentiation. Methods We retrospectively analyzed medical records of 158 women with FMS and 53 with SFN focusing on pain-specific medical and family history, accompanying symptoms, additional diseases, and treatment. We investigated data obtained using standardized pain, depression, and anxiety questionnaires. We further analyzed test results and findings obtained in standardized small fiber tests. Results FMS patients were on average ten years younger at symptom onset, described higher pain intensities requiring frequent change of pharmaceutics, and reported generalized pain compared to SFN. Pain in FMS was accompanied by irritable bowel or sleep disturbances, and in SFN by paresthesias, numbness, and impaired glucose metabolism (P < 0.01 each). Family history was informative for chronic pain and affective disorders in FMS (P < 0.001) and for neurological disorders in SFN patients (P < 0.001). Small fiber pathology in terms of skin denervation and/or thermal sensory threshold elevation was present in 110/158 (69.7 %) FMS patients and 39/53 (73.6 %) SFN patients. FMS patients mainly showed proximally reduced skin innervation and higher corneal nerve branch densities (p<0.001) whereas SFN patients were characterized by reduced cold detection and prolonged electrical A-delta conduction latencies (P < 0.05). Conclusions Our data show that FMS and SFN differ substantially. Detailed pain, drug and family history, investigating blood glucose metabolism, and applying differential small fiber tests may help to improve diagnostic differentiation and targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Jänsch
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany. Meyer zu Altenschildesche is now with the Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Dimitar Evdokimov
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany. Meyer zu Altenschildesche is now with the Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Nadine Egenolf
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany. Meyer zu Altenschildesche is now with the Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Caren Meyer zu Altenschildesche
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany. Meyer zu Altenschildesche is now with the Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Luisa Kreß
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany. Meyer zu Altenschildesche is now with the Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Nurcan Üçeyler
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany. Meyer zu Altenschildesche is now with the Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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13
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Løseth S, Nebuchennykh M, Brokstad RT, Lindal S, Mellgren SI. Cutaneous nerve biopsy in patients with symptoms of small fiber neuropathy: a retrospective study. Scand J Pain 2024; 24:sjpain-2023-0071. [PMID: 38381703 DOI: 10.1515/sjpain-2023-0071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to investigate to what extent small fiber tests were abnormal in an unselected retrospective patient material with symptoms suggesting that small fiber neuropathy (SFN) could be present, and to evaluate possible gender differences. METHODS Nerve conduction studies (NCS), skin biopsy for determination of intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) and quantitative sensory testing (QST) were performed. Z-scores were calculated from reference materials to adjust for the effects of age and gender/height. RESULTS Two hundred and three patients, 148 females and 55 males had normal NCS and were considered to have possible SFN. 45.3 % had reduced IENFD, 43.2 % of the females and 50.9 % of the males. Mean IENFD was 7.3 ± 2.6 fibers/mm in females and 6.1 ± 2.3 in males (p<0.001), but the difference was not significant when adopting Z-scores. Comparison of gender differences between those with normal and abnormal IENFD were not significant when Z-scores were applied. QST was abnormal in 50 % of the patients (48.9 % in females and 52.9 % in males). In the low IENFD group 45 cases out of 90 (50 %) were recorded with abnormal QST. In those with normal IENFD 51 of 102 (50 %) showed abnormal QST. CONCLUSIONS Less than half of these patients had reduced IENFD, and 50 % had abnormal QST. There were no gender differences. A more strict selection of patients might have increased the sensitivity, but functional changes in unmyelinated nerve fibers are also known to occur with normal IENFD. Approval to collect data was given by the Norwegian data protection authority at University Hospital of North Norway (Project no. 02028).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sissel Løseth
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT the Artic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Maria Nebuchennykh
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Ruth Therese Brokstad
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Sigurd Lindal
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT the Artic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Svein Ivar Mellgren
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT the Artic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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Koetsier E, Vacchi E, Maino P, Dukanac J, Melli G, van Kuijk SMJ. Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation in Chronic Painful Polyneuropathy: A Potential Modulator for Small Nerve Fiber Regeneration. Neuromodulation 2023; 26:1772-1780. [PMID: 36192280 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurom.2022.08.455] [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: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Neuromodulatory treatments like spinal cord stimulation and dorsal root ganglion stimulation (DRGS) have emerged as effective treatments to relieve pain in painful polyneuropathy. Animal studies have demonstrated that neurostimulation can enhance nerve regeneration. This study aimed to investigate if DRGS may impact intraepidermal nerve fiber regeneration and sensory nerve function. MATERIALS AND METHODS Nine patients with chronic, intractable painful polyneuropathy were recruited. Intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) quantification in 3 mm punch skin biopsy was performed 1 month before DRGS (placed at the level of the L5 and S1 dorsal root ganglion) and after 12- and 24-month follow-up. Quantitative sensory testing, nerve conduction studies, and a clinical scale score were also performed at the same time points. RESULTS In 7 of 9 patients, DRGS was successful (defined as a reduction of ≥ 50% in daytime and/or night-time pain intensity), allowing a definitive implantable pulse generator implantation. The median baseline IENFD among these 7 patients was 1.6 fibers/mm (first and third quartile: 1.2; 4.3) and increased to 2.6 fibers/mm (2.5; 2.9) and 1.9 fibers/mm (1.6; 2.4) at 1- and 2-years follow-up, respectively. These changes were not statistically significant (p = 1.000 and 0.375). Sensory nerve tests did not show substantial changes. CONCLUSIONS Although not significant, the results of this study showed that in most of the patients with implants, there was a slight increase of the IENFD at the 1- and 2-year follow-up. Larger-scale clinical trials are warranted to explore the possible role of DRGS in reversing the progressive neurodegeneration over time. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION The Clinicaltrials.gov registration number for the study is NCT02435004; Swiss National Clinical Trials Portal: SNCTP000001376.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Koetsier
- Pain Management Center, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Lugano, Switzerland; Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland.
| | - Elena Vacchi
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland; Laboratories for Translational Research, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Paolo Maino
- Pain Management Center, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Lugano, Switzerland; Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Jasmina Dukanac
- Pain Management Center, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Giorgia Melli
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland; Laboratories for Translational Research, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Bellinzona, Switzerland; Neurology Department, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Sander M J van Kuijk
- Pain Management Center, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Lugano, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Medical Technology Assessment, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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15
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Riveline JP, Mallone R, Tiercelin C, Yaker F, Alexandre-Heymann L, Khelifaoui L, Travert F, Fertichon C, Julla JB, Vidal-Trecan T, Potier L, Gautier JF, Larger E, Lefaucheur JP. Validation of the Body Scan ®, a new device to detect small fiber neuropathy by assessment of the sudomotor function: agreement with the Sudoscan ®. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1256984. [PMID: 38020587 PMCID: PMC10644320 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1256984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Sudomotor dysfunction is one of the earliest manifestations of small fiber neuropathy (SFN), reflecting the alteration of sympathetic C fiber innervation of the sweat glands. Among other techniques, such innervation can be assessed by measuring electrochemical skin conductance (ESC) in microsiemens (μS). In this study, ESC was measured at the feet to detect distal SFN. For this objective, the performance of a new device, the Body Scan® (Withings, France), intended for home use, was compared with that of a reference device, the Sudoscan® (Impeto Medical, France), which requires a hospital setting. Methods In patients with diabetes with or without neuropathy or non-diabetic patients with lower-limb neuropathy, the diagnostic performance of the Body Scan® measurement was assessed by calculating its sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) to detect at least moderate SFN (Se70 and Sp70), defined by a value of feet ESC ≤ 70 μS and > 50 μS on the Sudoscan® measure, or severe SFN (Se50 and Sp50), defined by a value of feet ESC ≤ 50 μS on the Sudoscan® measure. The agreement between the two devices was assessed with the analysis of Bland-Altman plots, mean absolute error (MAE), and root mean squared error (RMSE) calculations. The repeatability of the measurements was also compared between the two devices. Results A total of 147 patients (52% men, mean age 59 years old, 76% diabetic) were included in the analysis. The sensitivity and specificity to detect at least moderate or severe SFN were: Se70 = 0.91 ([0.83, 0.96]), Sp70 = 0.97 ([0.88, 0.99]), Se50 = 0.91 ([0.80, 0.98]), and Sp50 = 0.99 ([0.94, 1]), respectively. The bias and 95% limits of agreement were 1.5 [-5.4, 8.4]. The MAE was 2.9 and the RMSE 3.8. The intra-sample variability was 2.0 for the Body Scan® and 2.3 for the Sudoscan®. Conclusion The ESC measurements provided by the Body Scan® were in almost perfect agreement with those provided by the reference device, the Sudoscan®, which validates the accuracy of the Body Scan® for the detection of SFN. By enabling simple, rapid, and autonomous use by the patient at home, this new technique will facilitate screening and monitoring of SFN in daily practice. Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT05178459.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Fetta Yaker
- Diabetology Department, Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
| | | | - Lysa Khelifaoui
- Diabetology – Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Bichat-Claude-Bernard Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Florence Travert
- Diabetology – Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Bichat-Claude-Bernard Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Claire Fertichon
- Diabetology – Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Bichat-Claude-Bernard Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Baptiste Julla
- Diabetology and Endocrinology Department, Lariboisière Hospital, Paris, France
| | | | - Louis Potier
- Diabetology – Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Bichat-Claude-Bernard Hospital, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Jean-Pascal Lefaucheur
- Unité de Neurophysiologie Clinique, Hôpital Henri Mondor, AP-HP, Créteil, France
- EA4391 (ENT), Faculté de Santé, Université Paris Est Créteil, Créteil, France
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16
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Balbuena-Pareja A, Bogen CS, Cox SM, Hamrah P. Effect of recombinant human nerve growth factor treatment on corneal nerve regeneration in patients with neurotrophic keratopathy. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1210179. [PMID: 37965220 PMCID: PMC10642242 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1210179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Neurotrophic Keratopathy (NK) is a neurodegenerative corneal disease that results in diminished corneal sensation. Previous studies have found that Cenegermin 0.002%, a recombinant human nerve growth factor (rhNGF), improves corneal epithelial healing in stage 2 and 3 NK patients. However, rhNGF effect on corneal sensation and nerve regeneration has not been well established. Thus, this study aims to analyze the effect of rhNGF on corneal nerve regeneration using in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) and on corneal sensitivity in NK patients. Methods This is a retrospective, longitudinal, case-control study that included patients with NK, treated with rhNGF for at least 4 weeks, with pre- and post-treatment IVCM images available for analysis. Chart reviews were conducted documenting prior medical and surgical history, clinical signs and symptoms, and corneal sensation using Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometry. Corneal nerve parameters were assessed by IVCM. Sex- and age-matched reference controls were selected from a database of healthy subjects for comparison. Results The study included 25 patients, with 22 (88%) stage 1, two (8%) stage 2, and 1 (4%) stage 3 NK patients, with a median age of 64 years (range: 30-93 years). Total, main, and branch nerve densities [median (range) in mm/mm2] were lower in the NK group pre-treatment [2.3 (0.0-21.1); 1.7 (0.0-13.0); 0.5 (0.0-10.2); respectively] vs. controls [22.3 (14.9-29.0); 10.1 (3.2-15.4); and 12.1 (6.2-18.4), (p < 0.0001 for all), respectively]. Post-treatment nerve densities increased compared to pre-treatment to 5.3 (0.0-19.4, p = 0.0083) for total, 3.5 (0.0-13.2, p = 0.0059) for main, and 2.0 (0.0-10.4, p = 0.0251) for branch nerves, but remained lower than controls (p < 0.0001 for all). Corneal sensation increased from 2.3 ± 1.1 cm pre-treatment to 4.1 ± 1.4 cm post-treatment (p = 0.001). Median best corrected visual acuity significantly increased following rhNGF treatment from 0.4 (0.0-1.6) to 0.12 (-0.1 to 1.6) (p = 0.007). Conclusion Patients with NK treated with at least 4 weeks of rhNGF, showed a significant increase in corneal nerve densities after treatment. A significant increase in corneal sensation, as well as best corrected visual acuity, was observed following treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Balbuena-Pareja
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Chloe S. Bogen
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Stephanie M. Cox
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
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17
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Kokotis P, Zompola C, Anastasakis A, Damianaki A, Bountziouka C, Mpora M, Papatheodorou S, Tsivgoulis G. Clinical significance of small nerve fiber involvement in the early diagnosis and treatment of patients with Fabry disease. J Neurol Sci 2023; 453:120776. [PMID: 37797349 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2023.120776] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Peripheral nervous system is early involved in Fabry disease (FD) and preferentially the small nerve fibers, causing the characteristic neuropathic pain crises usually beginning in childhood. Early detection of this likely underdiagnosed disease is an important approach because causal therapies are available. METHODS We conducted a case-series study to investigate the small nerve fiber involvement in FD and its contribution to the diagnosis of the disease but also to the timely effective therapy administration. We used specific structured scales of symptoms and signs to detect peripheral neuropathy, as well as suitable functional and structural tests to diagnose the small fiber neuropathy (SFN). RESULTS Twenty-seven consecutive patients (14 men, mean age 44.62 ± 10.70 years) with suspected FD were included in this study. Most of the patients presented symptoms of small nerve fiber involvement, which were accompanied by abnormal test results, fulfilling the criteria for SFN. The detection of SFN in our patients allowed the completion of the FD diagnostic criteria and thus the initiation of therapy. In five patients the SFN diagnosis determined the administration of therapy, whereas in two others it might be considered. CONCLUSION Our results further suggest the importance of early diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy, especially of small nerve fiber involvement, in patients with suspected FD as it contributes crucially not only to the diagnosis but also to the timely effective initiation of FD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Kokotis
- First Department of Neurology, Aeginition hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | - Christina Zompola
- Second Department of Neurology, "Attikon" University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Aris Anastasakis
- Unit of Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center, Athens, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Damianaki
- Nephrology Department, General Hospital of Athens Ippokrateio, Athens, Greece; Service of Nephrology and Hypertension, University Hospital of Lausanne and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Chrysanthi Bountziouka
- First Department of Neurology, Aeginition hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Margarita Mpora
- Nephrology Department, General Hospital of Athens Ippokrateio, Athens, Greece
| | - Stathis Papatheodorou
- Unit of Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Tsivgoulis
- Second Department of Neurology, "Attikon" University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Bouhassira D, Attal N. Personalized treatment of neuropathic pain: Where are we now? Eur J Pain 2023; 27:1084-1098. [PMID: 37114461 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.2120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The treatment of neuropathic pain remains a major unmet need that the development of personalized and refined treatment strategies may contribute to address. DATABASE In this narrative review, we summarize the various approaches based on objective biomarkers or clinical markers that could be used. RESULTS In principle, the validation of objective biomarkers would be the most robust approach. However, although promising results have been reported demonstrating a potential value of genomics, anatomical or functional markers, the clinical validation of these markers has only just begun. Thus, most of the strategies documented to date have been based on the development of clinical markers. In particular, many studies have suggested that the identification of specific subgroups of patients presenting with specific combinations of symptoms and signs would be a relevant approach. Two main approaches have been used to identify relevant sensory profiles: quantitative sensory testing and specific patients reported outcomes based on description of pain qualities. CONCLUSION We discuss here the advantages and limitations of these approaches, which are not mutually exclusive. SIGNIFICANCE Recent data indicate that various new treatment strategies based on predictive biological and/or clinical markers could be helpful to better personalized and therefore improve the management of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Didier Bouhassira
- Inserm U987, UVSQ-Paris-Saclay University, Ambroise Pare Hospital, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Nadine Attal
- Inserm U987, UVSQ-Paris-Saclay University, Ambroise Pare Hospital, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
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19
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Ludwig B, Deckert M, Krajnc N, Keritam O, Macher S, Bsteh G, Zulehner G, Thurnher M, Berger T, Seidel S, Willinger U, Rommer P. Reported neurological symptoms after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 infection: A systematic diagnostic approach. Eur J Neurol 2023; 30:2713-2725. [PMID: 37306533 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15923] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Following increasing demands of patients with suspected neurological symptoms after infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the Department of Neurology at the Medical University of Vienna established a new outpatient clinic to systematically assess, diagnose, and document neurological complaints potentially associated with a prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. METHODS The data presented here include prospectively collected 156 outpatients from May 2021 to April 2022. Patients underwent semistandardized interviewing about symptoms with reported onset after SARS-CoV-2 infection, neurological examination, and comprehensive diagnostic workup. RESULTS Reported new onset symptoms after infection included fatigue (77.6%), subjective cognitive impairment (72.4%), headache (47.7%), loss of smell and/or taste (43.2%), and sleep disturbances (42.2%). Most patients had a mild coronavirus disease (COVID-19) disease course (84%) and reported comorbidities (71%), of which the most frequent were psychiatric disorders (34%). Frequency of symptoms was not associated with age, sex, or severity of COVID-19 course. A comprehensive diagnostic workup revealed no neurological abnormalities in the clinical examination, or electrophysiological or imaging assessments in the majority of patients (n = 143, 91.7%). Neuropsychological assessment of a subgroup of patients (n = 28, 17.9%) showed that cognitive impairments in executive functions and attention, anxiety, depression, and somatization symptoms were highly common. CONCLUSIONS In this systematic registry, we identified fatigue, cognitive impairment, and headache as the most frequently reported persisting complaints after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Structural neurological findings were rare. We also suspect a link between the growing burden of the COVID-19 pandemic on personal lives and the increase in reported neurological and psychiatric complaints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Ludwig
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences & Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Matthias Deckert
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences & Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nik Krajnc
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences & Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Omar Keritam
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences & Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan Macher
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences & Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gabriel Bsteh
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences & Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gudrun Zulehner
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences & Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Majda Thurnher
- Section of Neuroradiology and Musculoskeletal Radiology, Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences & Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan Seidel
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences & Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Rehabilitation Clinic Pirawarth, Bad Pirawarth, Austria
| | - Ulrike Willinger
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences & Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Paulus Rommer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences & Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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20
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Raasing LR, Veltkamp M, Datema M, Grutters JC, Vogels OJ. Thermal threshold testing: call for a balance between the number of measurements and abnormalities in the diagnosis of sarcoidosis-associated small fiber neuropathy. Pain Rep 2023; 8:e1095. [PMID: 37674973 PMCID: PMC10479475 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000001095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Several recent studies of diagnosing small fiber neuropathy (SFN) have shown a lack of uniformity in thermal threshold testing (TTT) or quantitative sensory testing (QST) which makes it a challenge to compare the data. It is known that the chance of finding an abnormality increases with increasing number of measurements. Objectives With this study, we first wanted to investigate whether TTT could benefit from a new approach focusing on the balance between the number of measurements, depending on the selection of parameters and measuring sites, and on number of abnormalities (NOAs). Second, we wanted to address the role of the method of levels (MLe) in possible desensitization during TTT measurements. Methods One hundred seventeen participants were included (48 patients with sarcoidosis with probable SFN, 49 without SFN, and 20 healthy controls). Thermal threshold testing measurements and Small Fiber Neuropathy Screening List (SFNSL) questionnaire were used to assess SFN. Results A combination of measuring all thermal threshold parameters at both feet except for MLe showed the best diagnostic performance. Increasing TTT NOAs correlates with the severity of SFN. Adding the SFNSL questionnaire further improves diagnostic performance. Discussion Looking at TTT NOAs in all TTT parameters except for MLe at both feet should be considered as a new approach to improve the consistency and balance between the selection of TTT parameters, measuring sites, and definition of "abnormal QST." Moreover, the SFNSL questionnaire is a valuable tool to quantify SFN symptoms and could improve SFN diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisette R.M. Raasing
- ILD Center of Excellence, Department of Pulmonology, St Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, the Netherlands
| | - Marcel Veltkamp
- ILD Center of Excellence, Department of Pulmonology, St Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, the Netherlands
- Division of Heart and Lungs, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Mirjam Datema
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, St Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, the Netherlands
| | - Jan C. Grutters
- ILD Center of Excellence, Department of Pulmonology, St Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, the Netherlands
- Division of Heart and Lungs, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Oscar J.M. Vogels
- ILD Center of Excellence, Department of Neurology, St Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, the Netherlands
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21
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Korosoglou G, Giesen A, Geiss E, Stach K. Case report: Strong low-density-cholesterol reduction accompanied by shrinkage of low-attenuation coronary plaque during lipid-lowering treatment with bempedoic acid-serial evaluation by coronary computed tomography angiography. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1203832. [PMID: 37600047 PMCID: PMC10436545 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1203832] [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: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we present a patient with coronary artery disease and prior percutaneous coronary interventions. This patient had to discontinue taking multiple statins and ezetimibe due to intolerance with musculoskeletal complaints and nausea. Monotherapy with bempedoic acid was well tolerated and was exceptionally effective at lipid lowering, enabling patients to achieve the low-density lipoprotein target of <55 mg/dl, as recommended by current guidelines. In addition, serial coronary computed tomography angiography performed upon clinical indications, during 20 months of lipid-lowering treatment with bempedoic acid, demonstrated signs of favorable plaque component modification, with shrinkage of the low-attenuation plaque component compared to baseline findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grigorios Korosoglou
- Department of Cardiology, Vascular Medicine & Pneumology, GRN Hospital Weinheim, Weinheim, Germany
- Weinheim Imaging Center, Hector Foundation, Weinheim, Germany
- University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexander Giesen
- Department of Cardiology, Vascular Medicine & Pneumology, GRN Hospital Weinheim, Weinheim, Germany
- Weinheim Imaging Center, Hector Foundation, Weinheim, Germany
| | - Eva Geiss
- Fifth Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ksenija Stach
- Fifth Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
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22
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Truini A, Aleksovska K, Anderson CC, Attal N, Baron R, Bennett DL, Bouhassira D, Cruccu G, Eisenberg E, Enax-Krumova E, Davis KD, Di Stefano G, Finnerup NB, Garcia-Larrea L, Hanafi I, Haroutounian S, Karlsson P, Rakusa M, Rice ASC, Sachau J, Smith BH, Sommer C, Tölle T, Valls-Solé J, Veluchamy A. Joint European Academy of Neurology-European Pain Federation-Neuropathic Pain Special Interest Group of the International Association for the Study of Pain guidelines on neuropathic pain assessment. Eur J Neurol 2023; 30:2177-2196. [PMID: 37253688 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE In these guidelines, we aimed to develop evidence-based recommendations for the use of screening questionnaires and diagnostic tests in patients with neuropathic pain (NeP). METHODS We systematically reviewed studies providing information on the sensitivity and specificity of screening questionnaires, and quantitative sensory testing, neurophysiology, skin biopsy, and corneal confocal microscopy. We also analysed how functional neuroimaging, peripheral nerve blocks, and genetic testing might provide useful information in diagnosing NeP. RESULTS Of the screening questionnaires, Douleur Neuropathique en 4 Questions (DN4), I-DN4 (self-administered DN4), and Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (LANSS) received a strong recommendation, and S-LANSS (self-administered LANSS) and PainDETECT weak recommendations for their use in the diagnostic pathway for patients with possible NeP. We devised a strong recommendation for the use of skin biopsy and a weak recommendation for quantitative sensory testing and nociceptive evoked potentials in the NeP diagnosis. Trigeminal reflex testing received a strong recommendation in diagnosing secondary trigeminal neuralgia. Although many studies support the usefulness of corneal confocal microscopy in diagnosing peripheral neuropathy, no study specifically investigated the diagnostic accuracy of this technique in patients with NeP. Functional neuroimaging and peripheral nerve blocks are helpful in disclosing pathophysiology and/or predicting outcomes, but current literature does not support their use for diagnosing NeP. Genetic testing may be considered at specialist centres, in selected cases. CONCLUSIONS These recommendations provide evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for NeP diagnosis. Due to the poor-to-moderate quality of evidence identified by this review, future large-scale, well-designed, multicentre studies assessing the accuracy of diagnostic tests for NeP are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Truini
- Department of Human Neuroscience, University Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Katina Aleksovska
- European Academy of Neurology, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Neurology, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, North Macedonia
| | - Christopher C Anderson
- Division of Clinical and Translational Research, Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Nadine Attal
- Université Versailles Saint Quentin en Yvelines, Versailles, France
- Inserm U987, Pathophysiology and Clinical Pharmacology of Pain, Centre d'évaluation et de Traitement de la Douleur, Hôpital Ambroise Paré, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Ralf Baron
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - David L Bennett
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Didier Bouhassira
- Inserm U987, Pathophysiology and Clinical Pharmacology of Pain, Centre d'évaluation et de Traitement de la Douleur, Hôpital Ambroise Paré, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Giorgio Cruccu
- Department of Human Neuroscience, University Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Elon Eisenberg
- Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Elena Enax-Krumova
- Department of Neurology, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Karen Deborah Davis
- Division of Brain, Imaging, and Behaviour, Krembil Brain Institute, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Nanna B Finnerup
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Danish Pain Research Centre, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Luis Garcia-Larrea
- Central Integration of Pain (NeuroPain) Lab-Lyon Neuroscience Research Centre, INSERM U1028, CNRS, UMR5292, Université Claude Bernard, Bron, France
- Centre D'évaluation et de Traitement de la Douleur, Hôpital Neurologique, Lyon, France
| | - Ibrahem Hanafi
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Simon Haroutounian
- Division of Clinical and Translational Research, Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Pall Karlsson
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Danish Pain Research Centre, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Core Centre for Molecular Morphology, Section for Stereology and Microscopy, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Martin Rakusa
- Division of Neurology, University Medical Centre Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Andrew S C Rice
- Pain Research, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Juliane Sachau
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Blair H Smith
- Division of Population Health and Genomics, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Claudia Sommer
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Tölle
- Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Josep Valls-Solé
- Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Abirami Veluchamy
- Division of Population Health and Genomics, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
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23
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Krämer HH, Bücker P, Jeibmann A, Richter H, Rosenbohm A, Jeske J, Baka P, Geber C, Wassenberg M, Fangerau T, Karst U, Schänzer A, van Thriel C. Gadolinium contrast agents: dermal deposits and potential effects on epidermal small nerve fibers. J Neurol 2023:10.1007/s00415-023-11740-z. [PMID: 37138180 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11740-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Small fiber neuropathy (SFN) affects unmyelinated and thinly myelinated nerve fibers causing neuropathic pain with distal distribution and autonomic symptoms. In idiopathic SFN (iSFN), 30% of the cases, the underlying aetiology remains unknown. Gadolinium (Gd)-based contrast agents (GBCA) are widely used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, side-effects including musculoskeletal disorders and burning skin sensations were reported. We investigated if dermal Gd deposits are more prevalent in iSFN patients exposed to GBCAs, and if dermal nerve fiber density and clinical parameters are likewise affected. 28 patients (19 females) with confirmed or no GBCA exposure were recruited in three German neuromuscular centers. ISFN was confirmed by clinical, neurophysiological, laboratory and genetic investigations. Six volunteers (two females) served as controls. Distal leg skin biopsies were obtained according to European recommendations. In these samples Gd was quantified by elemental bioimaging and intraepidermal nerve fibers (IENF) density via immunofluorescence analysis. Pain phenotyping was performed in all patients, quantitative sensory testing (QST) only in a subset (15 patients; 54%). All patients reported neuropathic pain, described as burning (n = 17), jabbing (n = 16) and hot (n = 11) and five QST scores were significantly altered. Compared to an equal distribution significantly more patients reported GBCA exposures (82%), while 18% confirmed no exposures. Compared to unexposed patients/controls significantly increased Gd deposits and lower z-scores of the IENF density were confirmed in exposed patients. QST scores and pain characteristics were not affected. This study suggests that GBCA exposure might alter IENF density in iSFN patients. Our results pave the road for further studies investigating the possible role of GBCA in small fiber damage, but more investigations and larger samples are needed to draw firm conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidrun H Krämer
- Department of Neurology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Patrick Bücker
- Institute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Astrid Jeibmann
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Henning Richter
- Clinic for Diagnostic Imaging, Diagnostic Imaging Research Unit (DIRU),Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Johanna Jeske
- Department of Neurology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Panoraia Baka
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, 55101, Mainz, Germany
| | - Christian Geber
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, 55101, Mainz, Germany
- DRK Pain Center Mainz, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Matthias Wassenberg
- Department of Neurology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Tanja Fangerau
- Department of Neurology, University of Ulm, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Uwe Karst
- Institute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Anne Schänzer
- Institute of Neuropathology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
| | - Christoph van Thriel
- IfADo-Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, 44139, Dortmund, Germany.
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24
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Gylfadottir SS, Itani M, Kristensen AG, Nyengaard JR, Sindrup SH, Jensen TS, Finnerup NB, Karlsson P. Assessing Corneal Confocal Microscopy and Other Small Fiber Measures in Diabetic Polyneuropathy. Neurology 2023; 100:e1680-e1690. [PMID: 36750383 PMCID: PMC10115507 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000206902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Damage to small nerve fibers is common in diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN), and the diagnosis of DPN relies on subjective symptoms and signs in a combination with objective confirmatory tests, typically electrophysiology or intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) from skin biopsy. Corneal confocal microscopy (CCM) has been introduced as a tool to detect DPN. However, it is unclear if CCM can reliably be used to diagnose DPN and how the technique compares with other commonly used measures of small fiber damage, such as IENFD, cold detection threshold (CDT), and warm detection threshold (WDT). Therefore, we assessed and compared the use of CCM, IENFD, CDT, and WDT in the diagnosis of DPN in patients with type 2 diabetes. METHODS In this cohort study, the participants underwent detailed neurologic examination, electrophysiology, quantification of IENFD, CCM, and quantitative sensory testing. Definition of DPN was made in accordance with the Toronto criteria for diabetic neuropathy (without relying on IENFD and thermal thresholds). RESULTS A total of 214 patients with at least probable DPN, 63 patients without DPN, and 97 controls without diabetes were included. Patients with DPN had lower CCM measures (corneal nerve fiber length [CNFL], nerve fiber density, and branch density), IENFD, CDT, and WDT compared with patients without DPN (p ≤ 0.001, <0.001, 0.002, p < 0.001, p = 0.003, and <0.005, respectively), whereas there was no difference between controls and patients with diabetes without DPN. All 3 CCM measures showed a very low diagnostic sensitivity with CNFL showing the highest (14.4% [95% CI 9.8-18.4]) and a specificity of 95.7% (88.0-99.1). In comparison, the sensitivity of abnormal CDT and/or WDT was 30.5% (24.4-37.0) with a specificity of 84.9% (74.6-92.2). The sensitivity of abnormal IENFD was highest among all measures with a value of 51.1% (43.7-58.5) and a specificity of 90% (79.5-96.2). CCM measures did not correlate with IENFD, CDT/WDT, or neuropathy severity in the group of patients with DPN. DISCUSSION CCM measures showed the lowest sensitivity compared with other small fiber measures in the diagnosis of DPN. This indicates that CCM is not a sensitive method to detect DPN in recently diagnosed type 2 diabetes. CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE This study provides Class III evidence that CCM measures aid in the detection of DPN in recently diagnosed type 2 diabetics but with a low sensitivity when compared with other small fiber measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra S Gylfadottir
- From the Department of Clinical Medicine (S.S.G., T.S.J., N.B.F., P.K.), Danish Pain Research Centre, and Core Centre for Molecular Morphology (J.R.N., P.K.), Aarhus University; Departments of Neurology (S.S.G, T.S.J., N.B.F.), Clinical Neurophysiology (A.G.K.), and Pathology (J.R.N.), Aarhus University Hospital; and Department of Neurology (M.I., S.H.S.), Odense University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Mustapha Itani
- From the Department of Clinical Medicine (S.S.G., T.S.J., N.B.F., P.K.), Danish Pain Research Centre, and Core Centre for Molecular Morphology (J.R.N., P.K.), Aarhus University; Departments of Neurology (S.S.G, T.S.J., N.B.F.), Clinical Neurophysiology (A.G.K.), and Pathology (J.R.N.), Aarhus University Hospital; and Department of Neurology (M.I., S.H.S.), Odense University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Alexander G Kristensen
- From the Department of Clinical Medicine (S.S.G., T.S.J., N.B.F., P.K.), Danish Pain Research Centre, and Core Centre for Molecular Morphology (J.R.N., P.K.), Aarhus University; Departments of Neurology (S.S.G, T.S.J., N.B.F.), Clinical Neurophysiology (A.G.K.), and Pathology (J.R.N.), Aarhus University Hospital; and Department of Neurology (M.I., S.H.S.), Odense University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Jens R Nyengaard
- From the Department of Clinical Medicine (S.S.G., T.S.J., N.B.F., P.K.), Danish Pain Research Centre, and Core Centre for Molecular Morphology (J.R.N., P.K.), Aarhus University; Departments of Neurology (S.S.G, T.S.J., N.B.F.), Clinical Neurophysiology (A.G.K.), and Pathology (J.R.N.), Aarhus University Hospital; and Department of Neurology (M.I., S.H.S.), Odense University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Søren Hein Sindrup
- From the Department of Clinical Medicine (S.S.G., T.S.J., N.B.F., P.K.), Danish Pain Research Centre, and Core Centre for Molecular Morphology (J.R.N., P.K.), Aarhus University; Departments of Neurology (S.S.G, T.S.J., N.B.F.), Clinical Neurophysiology (A.G.K.), and Pathology (J.R.N.), Aarhus University Hospital; and Department of Neurology (M.I., S.H.S.), Odense University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Troels S Jensen
- From the Department of Clinical Medicine (S.S.G., T.S.J., N.B.F., P.K.), Danish Pain Research Centre, and Core Centre for Molecular Morphology (J.R.N., P.K.), Aarhus University; Departments of Neurology (S.S.G, T.S.J., N.B.F.), Clinical Neurophysiology (A.G.K.), and Pathology (J.R.N.), Aarhus University Hospital; and Department of Neurology (M.I., S.H.S.), Odense University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Nanna B Finnerup
- From the Department of Clinical Medicine (S.S.G., T.S.J., N.B.F., P.K.), Danish Pain Research Centre, and Core Centre for Molecular Morphology (J.R.N., P.K.), Aarhus University; Departments of Neurology (S.S.G, T.S.J., N.B.F.), Clinical Neurophysiology (A.G.K.), and Pathology (J.R.N.), Aarhus University Hospital; and Department of Neurology (M.I., S.H.S.), Odense University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Pall Karlsson
- From the Department of Clinical Medicine (S.S.G., T.S.J., N.B.F., P.K.), Danish Pain Research Centre, and Core Centre for Molecular Morphology (J.R.N., P.K.), Aarhus University; Departments of Neurology (S.S.G, T.S.J., N.B.F.), Clinical Neurophysiology (A.G.K.), and Pathology (J.R.N.), Aarhus University Hospital; and Department of Neurology (M.I., S.H.S.), Odense University Hospital, Denmark.
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25
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De Souza JM, Trevisan TJ, Sepresse SR, Londe AC, França Júnior MC, Appenzeller S. Peripheral Neuropathy in Systemic Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases-Diagnosis and Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16040587. [PMID: 37111344 PMCID: PMC10141986 DOI: 10.3390/ph16040587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is frequently observed in systemic rheumatic diseases and is a challenge in clinical practice. We aimed to review the evidence on the subject and proposed a comprehensive approach to these patients, facilitating diagnosis and management. We searched the MEDLINE database for the terms (and its respective Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms): "peripheral neuropathy" AND "rheumatic diseases" OR "systemic lupus erythematosus", "rheumatoid arthritis", "Sjogren syndrome", and "vasculitis" from 2000 to 2023. This literature review focuses on the diagnostic workup of PNs related to systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic vasculitis. For every type of PN, we provide a pragmatic flowchart for diagnosis and also describe evidence-based strategies of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Marcos De Souza
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083881, Brazil
| | - Thiago Junqueira Trevisan
- Department of Orthopedics, Rheumatology and Traumatology, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas 13084971, Brazil
| | - Samara Rosa Sepresse
- Autoimmunity Laboratory, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083881, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Child and Adolescent Health, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083881, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Londe
- Autoimmunity Laboratory, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083881, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program in Physiopathology, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083881, Brazil
| | | | - Simone Appenzeller
- Department of Orthopedics, Rheumatology and Traumatology, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas 13084971, Brazil
- Autoimmunity Laboratory, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083881, Brazil
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26
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Chan ACY, Kumar S, Tan G, Wong HY, Ong JJY, Chandra B, Huang H, Sharma VK, Lai PS. Expanding the genetic causes of small-fiber neuropathy: SCN genes and beyond. Muscle Nerve 2023; 67:259-271. [PMID: 36448457 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Small-fiber neuropathy (SFN) is a disorder that exclusively affects the small nerve fibers, sparing the large nerve fibers. Thinly myelinated Aδ-fibers and unmyelinated C-fibers are damaged, leading to development of neuropathic pain, thermal dysfunction, sensory symptoms, and autonomic disturbances. Although many SFNs are secondary and due to immunological causes or metabolic disturbances, the etiology is unknown in up to half of the patients. Over the years, this proportion of "idiopathic SFN" has decreased, as familial and genetic causes have been discovered, thus shifting a proportion of once "idiopathic" cases to the genetic category. After the discovery of SCN9A-gene variants in 2012, SCN10A and SCN11A variants have been found to be pathogenic in SFN. With improved accessibility of SFN diagnostic tools and genetic tests, many non-SCN variants and genetically inherited systemic diseases involving the small nerve fibers have also been described, but only scattered throughout the literature. There are 80 SCN variants described as causing SFN, 8 genes causing hereditary sensory autonomic neuropathies (HSAN) described with pure SFN, and at least 7 genes involved in genetically inherited systemic diseases associated with SFN. This systematic review aims to consolidate and provide an updated overview on the genetic variants of SFN to date---SCN genes and beyond. Awareness of these genetic causes of SFN is imperative for providing treatment directions, prognostication, and management of expectations for patients and their health-care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda C Y Chan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Ling School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shivaram Kumar
- Yong Loo Ling School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Grace Tan
- Yong Loo Ling School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hiu Yi Wong
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
- Hong Kong Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jonathan J Y Ong
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Ling School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Bharatendu Chandra
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Ling School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Medical Genetics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Hua Huang
- Yong Loo Ling School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Vijay Kumar Sharma
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Ling School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Poh San Lai
- Yong Loo Ling School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Adjunct Faculty, Genome Institute of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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27
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Igharo D, Thiel JC, Rolke R, Akkaya M, Weis J, Katona I, Schulz JB, Maier A. Skin biopsy reveals generalized small fibre neuropathy in hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndromes. Eur J Neurol 2023; 30:719-728. [PMID: 36437696 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are hereditary disorders of connective tissue that are characterized by joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility and tissue fragility. The most common subtype is the hypermobile type. In addition to symptoms of small fibre neuropathy (SFN) due to damage to the small peripheral nerve fibres, with degeneration of the distal nerve endings, autonomic disorders such as postural tachycardia syndrome (PoTS) are frequently reported features in patients with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS). To date, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are still not completely understood. STUDY PURPOSE To better understand pathophysiological mechanisms of small fiber neuropathy and autonomic neuropathy in hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes. METHODS We prospectively investigated 31 patients with hEDS compared to 31 healthy controls by using skin biopsy, quantitative sensory testing, tilt-table testing, the painDetect, Small Fibre Neuropathy Screening List and the COMPASS-31 (Composite Autonomic Symptom Score 31) questionnaire. RESULTS Nineteen (61%) patients with hEDS were diagnosed with SFN, and 10 (32%) fulfilled the criteria for PoTS. Patients with hEDS had significantly higher heart rates than controls. According to quantitative sensory testing, these patients had generalized thermal and tactile hypesthesia. Skin biopsy revealed significantly reduced intraepithelial nerve fibre density proximally (thigh) and distally (lower leg) in patients compared to controls. This was consistent with various complaints of pain and sensory disturbances in both the proximal and distal body regions. CONCLUSION These results confirm histologically proven SFN as a common feature in patients with hEDS, revealing a generalized distribution of nerve fibre loss. Regarding the frequently reported autonomic and neuropathic dysfunctions, the findings support SFN as an important, but not the only, underlying pathomechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denver Igharo
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Joana C Thiel
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Roman Rolke
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Merve Akkaya
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Joachim Weis
- Institute of Neuropathology, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Istvan Katona
- Institute of Neuropathology, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jörg B Schulz
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- JARA-BRAIN Institute Molecular Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH and Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Andrea Maier
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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28
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Watabe D, Tominaga M, Toyama S, Takamori K, Nakano H, Amano H. A severe case of primary erythromelalgia presenting as small fiber neuropathy with a novel SCN9A mutation. J Dermatol 2023. [PMID: 36815391 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.16754] [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: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Primary erythromelalgia (PEM) is a rare condition characterized by severe burning pain, erythema, and increased temperature in the extremeties. Mutations in the Nav1.7 sodium channel encoded by the SCN9A are responsible for PEM. The pathophysiology of PEM is unclear, but the involvement of neurogenic and vasogenic mechanisms has been suggested. Here we report a case of severe PEM in a 9-year-old child with a novel SCN9A mutation and examine the distribution of nerve fibers and expression of neuropeptides in the affected skin. Gene mutation analysis revealed a novel mutation p.L951I (c.2851C>A) in the heterozygous form of the SCN9A. An immunofluorescence study showed that intraepidermal nerve fibers were decreased in the affected leg, suggesting small fiber neuropathy. There was no increase in the expression of substance P (SP) or calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the lesional skin tissue. These findings suggest SP and CGRP do not play a major role in the pathophysiology of primary erythromelalgia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Watabe
- Department of Dermatology, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Yahaba-cho, Japan
| | - Mitsutoshi Tominaga
- Juntendo Itch Research Center, Institute for Environment and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Urayasu, Japan
| | - Sumika Toyama
- Juntendo Itch Research Center, Institute for Environment and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Urayasu, Japan
| | - Kenji Takamori
- Juntendo Itch Research Center, Institute for Environment and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Urayasu, Japan
| | - Hajime Nakano
- Department of Dermatology, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Japan
| | - Hiroo Amano
- Department of Dermatology, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Yahaba-cho, Japan
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29
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Sjögren's syndrome with and without neurological involvement. J Neurol 2023; 270:2987-2996. [PMID: 36802030 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11613-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neurological manifestations of Sjögren's syndrome can be severe but also treatment-responsive. We aimed to systematically evaluate neurological manifestations of primary Sjögren's syndrome and find clinical features allowing sufficient identification of affected patients (pSSN) among those with Sjögren's syndrome without neurological involvement (pSS). METHODS Para-/clinical features of patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (2016 ACR/EULAR classification criteria) were compared between pSSN and pSS. At our university-based center, patients with suggestive neurological symptoms undergo screening for Sjögren's syndrome, and newly diagnosed pSS patients are thoroughly evaluated for neurologic involvement. pSSN disease activity was rated by the Neurological Involvement of Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Score (NISSDAI). RESULTS 512 patients treated for pSS/pSSN at our site between 04/2018 and 07/2022 were included (238 pSSN patients [46%] vs. 274 pSS patients [54%], cross-sectional design). Independent predictors of neurological involvement in Sjögren's syndrome were male sex [p < 0.001], older age at disease onset [p < 0.0001], hospitalization at first presentation [p < 0.001], lower IgG levels [p = 0.04] and higher eosinophil values (treatment-naïve) [p = 0.02]. Univariate regression additionally showed older age at diagnosis [p < 0.001], lower prevalence of rheumatoid factor [p = 0.001], SSA(Ro)/SSB(La) antibodies [p = 0.03; p < 0.001], higher white blood cell count [p = 0.02] and CK levels [p = 0.02] (treatment-naïve) in pSSN. INTERPRETATION Patients with pSSN had different clinical characteristics than patients with pSS and represented a large proportion of the cohort. Our data suggest that neurological involvement in Sjögren's syndrome has been underestimated. Intensified screening for neurologic involvement should be included in the diagnostic algorithm for Sjögren's syndrome, especially in males of older age and with severe disease course requiring hospitalization.
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30
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Galosi E, Truini A. The diagnostic accuracy of the small fiber neuropathy symptoms inventory questionnaire (SFN-SIQ): Reply to letter to the Editor. J Peripher Nerv Syst 2023. [PMID: 36786220 DOI: 10.1111/jns.12535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Galosi
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Truini
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
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31
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Kool D, Hoeijmakers JGJ, Faber CG, Merkies ISJ. The small fiber neuropathy-symptom inventory questionnaire (SFN-SIQ) does not discriminate between patients with or without small fiber neuropathy. J Peripher Nerv Syst 2023. [PMID: 36786222 DOI: 10.1111/jns.12536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Kool
- Department of Neurology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Janneke G J Hoeijmakers
- Department of Neurology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Catharina G Faber
- Department of Neurology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ingemar S J Merkies
- Department of Neurology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Curacao Medical Center, Willemstad, Curaçao
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32
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Seeliger T, Dreyer HN, Siemer JM, Bönig L, Gingele S, Dohrn MF, Prenzler N, Ernst D, Witte T, Skripuletz T. Clinical and paraclinical features of small fiber neuropathy in Sjögren's syndrome. J Neurol 2023; 270:1004-1010. [PMID: 36331613 PMCID: PMC9886580 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11431-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Sjögren's syndrome is a potentially treatable cause of Small Fiber Neuropathy (SFN)-a condition that severely affects patients' quality of life. We therefore aimed to characterize patients with SFN and Sjögren's syndrome to raise awareness of this disease and facilitate its early recognition as an essential step for appropriate treatment. In 97 SFN patients (median age 48 years, 77% female), we studied the clinical features associated with Sjögren's syndrome compared to the idiopathic SFN subtype. According to the current ACR/EULAR classification criteria (Shiboski et al., Ann Rheum Dis 76:9-16, 2017), 24/97 individuals (25%, median age 48.5 years, 75% female) were diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome. We did not observe any differences in SFN-defining sensory plus symptoms. Furthermore, intraepidermal nerve fiber densities (IENFD) were significantly lower in patients with SFN and Sjögren's syndrome (mean 2.6 ± 1.2/mm) compared to patients with idiopathic SFN (mean 3.2 ± 1.5/mm; p = 0.048). There were no significant group differences when analyzing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) parameters. We conclude that Sjögren's syndrome-associated SFN is difficult to distinguish from idiopathic forms based on initial clinical symptoms and CSF results. However, lower IENFD values in patients with Sjögren's syndrome-associated SFN might indicate a distinct different pathomechanism in this entity compared to idiopathic SFN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tabea Seeliger
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Henrike Neelke Dreyer
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Janna Margaretha Siemer
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Lena Bönig
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Stefan Gingele
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Nils Prenzler
- Department of Otolaryngology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Diana Ernst
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Torsten Witte
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Thomas Skripuletz
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany.
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Edwards RR, Schreiber KL, Dworkin RH, Turk DC, Baron R, Freeman R, Jensen TS, Latremoliere A, Markman JD, Rice ASC, Rowbotham M, Staud R, Tate S, Woolf CJ, Andrews NA, Carr DB, Colloca L, Cosma-Roman D, Cowan P, Diatchenko L, Farrar J, Gewandter JS, Gilron I, Kerns RD, Marchand S, Niebler G, Patel KV, Simon LS, Tockarshewsky T, Vanhove GF, Vardeh D, Walco GA, Wasan AD, Wesselmann U. Optimizing and Accelerating the Development of Precision Pain Treatments for Chronic Pain: IMMPACT Review and Recommendations. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2023; 24:204-225. [PMID: 36198371 PMCID: PMC10868532 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2022.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Large variability in the individual response to even the most-efficacious pain treatments is observed clinically, which has led to calls for a more personalized, tailored approach to treating patients with pain (ie, "precision pain medicine"). Precision pain medicine, currently an aspirational goal, would consist of empirically based algorithms that determine the optimal treatments, or treatment combinations, for specific patients (ie, targeting the right treatment, in the right dose, to the right patient, at the right time). Answering this question of "what works for whom" will certainly improve the clinical care of patients with pain. It may also support the success of novel drug development in pain, making it easier to identify novel treatments that work for certain patients and more accurately identify the magnitude of the treatment effect for those subgroups. Significant preliminary work has been done in this area, and analgesic trials are beginning to utilize precision pain medicine approaches such as stratified allocation on the basis of prespecified patient phenotypes using assessment methodologies such as quantitative sensory testing. Current major challenges within the field include: 1) identifying optimal measurement approaches to assessing patient characteristics that are most robustly and consistently predictive of inter-patient variation in specific analgesic treatment outcomes, 2) designing clinical trials that can identify treatment-by-phenotype interactions, and 3) selecting the most promising therapeutics to be tested in this way. This review surveys the current state of precision pain medicine, with a focus on drug treatments (which have been most-studied in a precision pain medicine context). It further presents a set of evidence-based recommendations for accelerating the application of precision pain methods in chronic pain research. PERSPECTIVE: Given the considerable variability in treatment outcomes for chronic pain, progress in precision pain treatment is critical for the field. An array of phenotypes and mechanisms contribute to chronic pain; this review summarizes current knowledge regarding which treatments are most effective for patients with specific biopsychosocial characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Dennis C Turk
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Ralf Baron
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Arnold-Heller-Straße 3, House D, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Roy Freeman
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Nick A Andrews
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, San Diego, California
| | | | | | | | - Penney Cowan
- American Chronic Pain Association, Rocklin, California
| | - Luda Diatchenko
- Department of Anesthesia and Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montreal, California
| | - John Farrar
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | | | | | - Robert D Kerns
- Yale University, Departments of Psychiatry, Neurology, and Psychology, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | | | - Kushang V Patel
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | | | | | | | | | - Gary A Walco
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Ajay D Wasan
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Ursula Wesselmann
- Department of Anesthesiology/Division of Pain Medicine, Neurology and Psychology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
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Fouchard M, Brenaut E, Genestet S, Ficheux AS, Marcorelles P, Misery L. Observational case-control study of small-fiber neuropathies, with regards on smoking and vitamin D deficiency and other possible causes. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 9:1051967. [PMID: 36714112 PMCID: PMC9877604 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1051967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Small fiber neuropathies (SFNs) are disorders of skin nerve endings inducing pruritus, burning pain, numbness, and paresthesia. The aims of this study were to search for putative etiologies of SFN and their occurrence in a cohort of patients and to compare patients with SFN to a group of patients without SFN to highlight potential factors associated with SFN. Methods This study was observational, retrospective, and monocentric. All patients with symptoms of SFN who underwent skin biopsies with intraepidermal nerve density counts were included. Patients with a count lower than 5 percentiles were considered to be in the SFN group. Other patients were considered to be the control group. Results A total of 162 patients with SFN and 161 controls were included. No cause was identified for 108 patients (61.7%). The established causes were autoimmune diseases (9.1%), diabetes or glucose intolerance (8%), medication (4%), liver disease (3.4%), and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (2.9%). Current or former smokers were more numerous in the SFN group (26.5%) than in the control group (16.1%), while vitamin D amounts were significantly lower in the SFN group than in the control group. Discussion Hence, tobacco smoking and vitamin D deficiency might be new putative causes of SFN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Fouchard
- Department of Dermatology, CHU Brest, Brest, France,Univ Brest, LIEN, Brest, France
| | - Emilie Brenaut
- Department of Dermatology, CHU Brest, Brest, France,Univ Brest, LIEN, Brest, France
| | - Steeve Genestet
- Department of Neurology, CHU Brest, Brest, France,Breton Competence Center of Rare Neuromuscular Diseases and Neuropathies With Cutaneous-Mucosal Symptoms, CHRU de Brest, Brest, France
| | | | - Pascale Marcorelles
- Univ Brest, LIEN, Brest, France,Breton Competence Center of Rare Neuromuscular Diseases and Neuropathies With Cutaneous-Mucosal Symptoms, CHRU de Brest, Brest, France,Department of Pathology, CHU Brest, Brest, France
| | - Laurent Misery
- Department of Dermatology, CHU Brest, Brest, France,Univ Brest, LIEN, Brest, France,Breton Competence Center of Rare Neuromuscular Diseases and Neuropathies With Cutaneous-Mucosal Symptoms, CHRU de Brest, Brest, France,*Correspondence: Laurent Misery,
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35
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Kreß L, Egenolf N, Sommer C, Üçeyler N. Cytokine expression profiles in white blood cells of patients with small fiber neuropathy. BMC Neurosci 2023; 24:1. [PMID: 36604634 PMCID: PMC9817338 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-022-00770-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of cytokines in the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and prognosis of small fiber neuropathy (SFN) is incompletely understood. We studied expression profiles of selected pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in RNA from white blood cells (WBC) of patients with a medical history and a clinical phenotype suggestive for SFN and compared data with healthy controls. METHODS We prospectively recruited 52 patients and 21 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Study participants were characterized in detail and underwent complete neurological examination. Venous blood was drawn for routine and extended laboratory tests, and for WBC isolation. Systemic RNA expression profiles of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1ß, IL-2, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) and the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4, IL-10, transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF) were analyzed. Protein levels of IL-2, IL-8, and TNF were measured in serum of patients and controls. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC)-curve analysis was used to determine the accuracy of IL-2, IL-8, and TNF in differentiating patients and controls. To compare the potential discriminatory efficacy of single versus combined cytokines, equality of different AUCs was tested. RESULTS WBC gene expression of IL-2, IL-8, and TNF was higher in patients compared to healthy controls (IL-2: p = 0.02; IL-8: p = 0.009; TNF: p = 0.03) and discriminated between the groups (area under the curve (AUC) ≥ 0.68 for each cytokine) with highest diagnostic accuracy reached by combining the three cytokines (AUC = 0.81, sensitivity = 70%, specificity = 86%). Subgroup analysis revealed the following differences: IL-8 and TNF gene expression levels were higher in female patients compared to female controls (IL-8: p = 0.01; TNF: p = 0.03). The combination of TNF with IL-2 and TNF with IL-2 and IL-8 discriminated best between the study groups. IL-2 was higher expressed in patients with moderate pain compared to those with severe pain (p = 0.02). Patients with acral pain showed higher IL-10 gene expression compared to patients with generalized pain (p = 0.004). We further found a negative correlation between the relative gene expression of IL-2 and current pain intensity (p = 0.02). Serum protein levels of IL-2, IL-8, and TNF did not differ between patients and controls. CONCLUSIONS We identified higher systemic gene expression of IL-2, IL-8, and TNF in SFN patients than in controls, which may be of potential relevance for diagnostics and patient stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Kreß
- grid.8379.50000 0001 1958 8658Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nadine Egenolf
- grid.8379.50000 0001 1958 8658Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Sommer
- grid.8379.50000 0001 1958 8658Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nurcan Üçeyler
- grid.8379.50000 0001 1958 8658Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
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Franz S, Heutehaus L, Tappe-Theodor A, Weidner N, Treede RD, Schuh-Hofer S. Noxious radiant heat evokes bi-component nociceptive withdrawal reflexes in spinal cord injured humans-A clinical tool to study neuroplastic changes of spinal neural circuits. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1141690. [PMID: 37200949 PMCID: PMC10185789 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1141690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Investigating nocifensive withdrawal reflexes as potential surrogate marker for the spinal excitation level may widen the understanding of maladaptive nociceptive processing after spinal cord injury (SCI). The aim of this prospective, explorative cross-sectional observational study was to investigate the response behavior of individuals with SCI to noxious radiant heat (laser) stimuli and to assess its relation to spasticity and neuropathic pain, two clinical consequences of spinal hyperexcitability/spinal disinhibition. Laser stimuli were applied at the sole and dorsum of the foot and below the fibula head. Corresponding reflexes were electromyography (EMG) recorded ipsilateral. Motor responses to laser stimuli were analyzed and related to clinical readouts (severity of injury/spasticity/pain), using established clinical assessment tools. Twenty-seven participants, 15 with SCI (age 18-63; 6.5 years post-injury; AIS-A through D) and 12 non-disabled controls, [non-disabled controls (NDC); age 19-63] were included. The percentage of individuals with SCI responding to stimuli (70-77%; p < 0.001), their response rates (16-21%; p < 0.05) and their reflex magnitude (p < 0.05) were significantly higher compared to NDC. SCI-related reflexes clustered in two time-windows, indicating involvement of both A-delta- and C-fibers. Spasticity was associated with facilitated reflexes in SCI (Kendall-tau-b p ≤ 0.05) and inversely associated with the occurrence/severity of neuropathic pain (Fisher's exact p < 0.05; Eta-coefficient p < 0.05). However, neuropathic pain was not related to reflex behavior. Altogether, we found a bi-component motor hyperresponsiveness of SCI to noxious heat, which correlated with spasticity, but not neuropathic pain. Laser-evoked withdrawal reflexes may become a suitable outcome parameter to explore maladaptive spinal circuitries in SCI and to assess the effect of targeted treatment strategies. Registration: https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00006779.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffen Franz
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Steffen Franz,
| | - Laura Heutehaus
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anke Tappe-Theodor
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Medical Faculty Heidelberg, Institute of Pharmacology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Norbert Weidner
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rolf-Detlef Treede
- Department of Neurophysiology, Mannheim Center for Translational Neuroscience, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sigrid Schuh-Hofer
- Department of Neurophysiology, Mannheim Center for Translational Neuroscience, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Neurology and Epileptology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- *Correspondence: Sigrid Schuh-Hofer,
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Metwally NAE, Hasan MM, Abd Elaziz AES, Elhadad AF, Ibraheem KS, Ali MAA, Elsalam HAA. Assessment of intraepidermal nerve fiber density and neurophysiological studies in patients with idiopathic polyneuropathy. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, PSYCHIATRY AND NEUROSURGERY 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s41983-022-00548-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Idiopathic polyneuropathy is an asymmetrical, length-dependent neuropathy in which neurophysiology demonstrates axonal damage involving large fibers, along with insidious onset and slow progression over 6 months, with no identified etiology in spite of thorough investigations. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic role of clinical, electrophysiological, and histopathological studies in patients with idiopathic polyneuropathy.
Methods
Case–control study included 20 patients with clinical and neurophysiological evidence of sensory or sensory–motor neuropathy with no apparent etiology after laboratory investigation were recruited from 127 patients with sensory–motor neuropathy of unknown etiology (the patients group). Twenty apparently healthy individuals, age- and sex-matched, with no neuropathy symptoms (the control group), were recruited from the Neurology Clinic of Al-Azhar University, Assuit.
Results
Age of onset of patients with idiopathic polyneuropathy (44–70) years, duration of illness (1–6) years, 60% had painful neuropathy, diagnostic neuropathic pain questioner (DN4 score) (5–7), abnormal pin brick (80%), abnormal vibration (90%), abnormal fine touch (75%), distal weakness (70%), and lost ankle reflex (90%). In the control group, there were substantial differences with respect to prolonged latency, diminished sympathetic skin response amplitude, and significant intraepidermal nerve fiber density reduction in skin biopsy cases. In diagnosing idiopathic polyneuropathy, the specificity and sensitivity of sympathetic skin response were (80–86)% and (81–89.5)%, respectively, whereas those of diminished intraepidermal nerve fiber density were (92.5%) and (97.5%), respectively.
Conclusion
The assessment of intraepidermal nerve fiber density had an important good diagnostic role in cases presented with polyneuropathy.
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Cirino PV, Hordinsky M, McAdams B, Romiti R. Small fiber neuropathy and intractable scalp pruritus in dermatomyositis patients. SKIN HEALTH AND DISEASE 2022; 3:e173. [PMID: 36751316 PMCID: PMC9892427 DOI: 10.1002/ski2.173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Background Scalp pruritus is a common symptom in Dermatomyositis (DM) patients. There are indications that small nerve fibers neuropathy could be involved in this symptom, however the etiology of scalp pruritus is not fully understood. Objectives To assess epidermal nerve fiber (ENF) density of dermatomyositis patients with scalp pruritus by biopsy by confocal microscopy and immunohistochemistry with subsequent imaging analysis. Methods DM patients with severe scalp pruritus from the dermatology outpatient clinic were compared to healthy volunteers. Two 4-mm scalp skin biopsies were obtained above the right ear in the parietal region and below the occipital protuberance in the occipital region. Biopsy specimens were incubated with primary antibodies to protein gene product (PGP 9.5), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), substance P (SP) were used to visualize nerve fibers (ENF) and collagen IV was used to label the epidermal basement membrane. The number of ENFs per millimeter was counted and recorded as the mean of ± SD of counts in 16 images at two micrometer increments/sections, two from each of the samples. ENF densities were compared between groups and a multiple linear regression model was applied to associated factors with ENF density. Results Fifteen DM patients with severe scalp pruritus and 12 healthy volunteers were included in the study. The mean number of ENF/mm in occipital region of DM group was 16.0 ± 13.9 while the control group in the same region was 99.8 ± 33.1. In parietal region the number of ENF/mm of DM group was 18.0 ± 20.7 while in control group was 50.4 ± 17.4 (p < 0.001). Conclusion DM patients with pruritus could have some impairment of small nerve fiber density that could explain their recalcitrant scalp pruritus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Hordinsky
- Department of DermatologyUniversity of MinnesotaMinneapolisMinnesotaUSA
| | - Brian McAdams
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of MinnesotaMinneapolisMinnesotaUSA
| | - Ricardo Romiti
- Department of DermatologyUniversity of São PauloSao PauloBrazil
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Mousselli RL, Gutiérrez Robles AE, Cohen J, Chang A. Successful utilization of high frequency spinal cord stimulation for HIV and chemotherapy induced polyneuropathy. Pain Manag 2022; 12:805-811. [DOI: 10.2217/pmt-2021-0125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a case of a 53-year-old male who presented with functionally limiting bilateral lower extremity neuropathic pain secondary to multiple subtypes of small fiber neuropathy. He had failed management with multiple conservative measures including oral medications, physical therapy and desensitization techniques. He ultimately underwent placement of a spinal cord stimulator and continued to experience 80% improvement of his pain, as well as improved function and quality of life at 5 month follow-up. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of successful treatment of multiple subtypes of small fiber neuropathy with spinal cord stimulator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Mousselli
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Memorial Healthcare System, Hollywood, FL 33021, USA
| | - Andrés E Gutiérrez Robles
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Memorial Healthcare System, Hollywood, FL 33021, USA
| | - Jackson Cohen
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Memorial Healthcare System, Hollywood, FL 33021, USA
- Division of Pain Medicine, Memorial Healthcare System, Hollywood, FL 33021, USA
| | - Andrew Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Memorial Healthcare System, Hollywood, FL 33021, USA
- Division of Pain Medicine, Memorial Healthcare System, Hollywood, FL 33021, USA
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40
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Nonregional small fibre neuropathy in cases of autoimmune autonomic neuropathy. J Neurol 2022; 269:6648-6654. [PMID: 36085427 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11340-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Autonomic small fibre neuropathy is described in patients with autoimmune autonomic neuropathy (AAN). Few data are available on somatosensory function and skin biopsies in AAN. METHODS Retrospective analysis of 17 patients (51.2 ± 6.8 years, n = 7 males) with AAN, including autoantibodies, quantitative sensory testing (QST, n = 13) and intraepithelial nerve fibre density (IENFD) in skin biopsy (n = 16). QST was performed according to the DFNS protocol over hands and feet dorsum. QST data were compared to healthy controls. Comparison of antibody-positive and antibody-negative cases. RESULTS 70.6% of patients were antibody positive. 82.4% described at least one episode with sensory symptoms. Skin biopsies revealed reduced IENFD in 58.8% of patients, whereas neuropathic pain was only present in 41.2%. QST showed a nonregional increase for nonpainful thermal and mechanical detection rather than for mechanical pain thresholds. Compared to healthy controls, sensory loss for cold and warm detection thresholds and for the thermal sensory limen-the temperature difference between alternating warm and cold stimuli-was found on hands and feet (all p < 0.05). For nonpainful mechanical stimuli, the vibration detection threshold on the hand was increased (p < 0.05). Of all pain thresholds, only the mechanical pain threshold was elevated for pinprick stimuli to the feet (p < 0.05). INTERPRETATION Findings are consistent with a sensory small fibre more than large fibre neuropathy in AAN. Sensory loss was comparably distributed across hands and feet, indicating that nerve fibre dysfunction was rather generalized. Serostatus was not a significant predictor of the small fibre deficit present in AAN.
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Judson MA. The treatment of sarcoidosis: translating the European respiratory guidelines into clinical practice. Curr Opin Pulm Med 2022; 28:451-460. [PMID: 35838355 DOI: 10.1097/mcp.0000000000000896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Recently, the European Respiratory Society (ERS) developed new international guidelines for the treatment of sarcoidosis. This manuscript attempts to distill the ERS Sarcoidosis Treatment Guidelines to a manageable format that can be easily used by practitioners. RECENT FINDINGS The ERS Sarcoidosis Treatment Guidelines addressed the treatment of pulmonary, skin, cardiac, neurologic, and sarcoidosis-associated fatigue. Therapeutic drug dosing and treatment algorithms for these conditions were also addressed. Glucocorticoids were the initial recommended treatment for these conditions except for sarcoidosis-associated fatigue where a pulmonary exercise program or a neurostimulant was initially suggested. Because of the risk of glucocorticoid side-effects, the Guidelines recommended early consideration of glucocorticoid-sparing therapy including certain antimetabolites and two specific tumor necrosis alpha antagonists: infliximab and adalimumab. SUMMARY The ERS Sarcoidosis Treatment Guidelines used a rigorous GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations) methodology to update treatment recommendations for this condition. This manuscript summarizes the Guideline findings in practical terms for clinicians. Suggested algorithms and treatment dosing recommendations are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc A Judson
- Professor of Medicine; Chief, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine; Department of Medicine Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
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Dohrn MF, Dumke C, Hornemann T, Nikolin S, Lampert A, Espenkott V, Vollert J, Ouwenbroek A, Zanella M, Schulz JB, Gess B, Rolke R. Deoxy-sphingolipids, oxidative stress, and vitamin C correlate with qualitative and quantitative patterns of small fiber dysfunction and degeneration. Pain 2022; 163:1800-1811. [PMID: 35239546 PMCID: PMC9393801 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Defined by dysfunction or degeneration of Aδ and C fibers, small fiber neuropathies (SFNs) entail a relevant health burden. In 50% of cases, the underlying cause cannot be identified or treated. In 100 individuals (70% female individuals; mean age: 44.8 years) with an idiopathic, skin biopsy-confirmed SFN, we characterized the symptomatic spectrum and measured markers of oxidative stress (vitamin C, selenium, and glutathione) and inflammation (transforming growth factor beta, tumor necrosis factor alpha), as well as neurotoxic 1-deoxy-sphingolipids. Neuropathic pain was the most abundant symptom (95%) and cause of daily life impairment (72%). Despite the common use of pain killers (64%), the painDETECT questionnaire revealed scores above 13 points in 80% of patients. In the quantitative sensory testing (QST), a dysfunction of Aδ fibers was observed in 70% and of C fibers in 44%, affecting the face, hands, or feet. Despite normal nerve conduction studies, QST revealed Aβ fiber involvement in 46% of patients' test areas. Despite absence of diabetes mellitus or mutations in SPTLC1 or SPTLC2 , plasma 1-deoxy-sphingolipids were significantly higher in the sensory loss patient cluster when compared with those in patients with thermal hyperalgesia ( P < 0.01) or those in the healthy category ( P < 0.1), correlating inversely with the intraepidermal nerve fiber density (1-deoxy-SA: P < 0.05, 1-deoxy-SO: P < 0.01). Patients with arterial hypertension, overweight (body mass index > 25 kg/m 2 ), or hyperlipidemia showed significantly lower L-serine (arterial hypertension: P < 0.01) and higher 1-deoxy-sphingolipid levels (arterial hypertension: P < 0.001, overweight: P < 0.001, hyperlipidemia: P < 0.01). Lower vitamin C levels correlated with functional Aβ involvement ( P < 0.05). Reduced glutathione was lower in patients with Aδ dysfunction ( P < 0.05). Idiopathic SFNs are heterogeneous. As a new pathomechanism, plasma 1-deoxy-sphingolipids might link the metabolic syndrome with small fiber degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maike F. Dohrn
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation, Department of Human Genetics and John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Christina Dumke
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Thorsten Hornemann
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University Hospital Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Nikolin
- Institute of Neuropathology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Angelika Lampert
- Institute of Physiology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Volker Espenkott
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jan Vollert
- Pain Research, Department of Surgery and Cancer (MSK), Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Germany
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Neurophysiology, Mannheim Center of Translational Neuroscience (MCTN), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Annabelle Ouwenbroek
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Martina Zanella
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University Hospital Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jörg B. Schulz
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Burkhard Gess
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Roman Rolke
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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Lauria G, Faber CG, Cornblath DR. Skin biopsy and small fibre neuropathies: facts and thoughts 30 years later. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2022; 93:915-918. [PMID: 35246491 PMCID: PMC9380509 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2021-327742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Lauria
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico "Carlo Besta", Milan, Italy .,Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Catharina G Faber
- Department of Neurology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - David R Cornblath
- Department of Neurology, John Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Wagenhäuser L, Rickert V, Sommer C, Wanner C, Nordbeck P, Rost S, Üçeyler N. X-chromosomal inactivation patterns in women with Fabry disease. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2022; 10:e2029. [PMID: 35971858 PMCID: PMC9482401 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.2029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although Fabry disease (FD) is an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in the α-galactosidase A gene (GLA), women may develop severe symptoms. We investigated X-chromosomal inactivation patterns (XCI) as a potential determinant of symptom severity in FD women. PATIENTS AND METHODS We included 95 women with mutations in GLA (n = 18 with variants of unknown pathogenicity) and 50 related men, and collected mouth epithelial cells, venous blood, and skin fibroblasts for XCI analysis using the methylation status of the androgen receptor gene. The mutated X-chromosome was identified by comparison of samples from relatives. Patients underwent genotype categorization and deep clinical phenotyping of symptom severity. RESULTS 43/95 (45%) women carried mutations categorized as classic. The XCI pattern was skewed (i.e., ≥75:25% distribution) in 6/87 (7%) mouth epithelial cell samples, 31/88 (35%) blood samples, and 9/27 (33%) skin fibroblast samples. Clinical phenotype, α-galactosidase A (GAL) activity, and lyso-Gb3 levels did not show intergroup differences when stratified for X-chromosomal skewing and activity status of the mutated X-chromosome. CONCLUSIONS X-inactivation patterns alone do not reliably reflect the clinical phenotype of women with FD when investigated in biomaterial not directly affected by FD. However, while XCI patterns may vary between tissues, blood frequently shows skewing of XCI patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vanessa Rickert
- Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Sommer
- Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,Fabry Centre for Interdisciplinary Therapy Würzburg (FAZIT), University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Wanner
- Fabry Centre for Interdisciplinary Therapy Würzburg (FAZIT), University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Peter Nordbeck
- Fabry Centre for Interdisciplinary Therapy Würzburg (FAZIT), University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Simone Rost
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nurcan Üçeyler
- Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,Fabry Centre for Interdisciplinary Therapy Würzburg (FAZIT), University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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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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Lunden LK, Kleggetveit IP, Schmelz M, Jorum E. Cold allodynia is correlated to paroxysmal and evoked mechanical pain in complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Scand J Pain 2022; 22:533-542. [PMID: 35429156 DOI: 10.1515/sjpain-2021-0208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Mechanisms of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) are still debated. Identifying subgroups of patients have been attempted in the hope of linking clinical findings to possible mechanisms. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether subgroups of CRPS (based on quantitative sensory testing (QST)-results) differed with respect to different characteristics of pain like spontaneous ongoing or paroxysmal pain and mechanical dynamic allodynia. METHODS 61 CRPS-patients (type 1 and 2) were examined clinically and with QST, in affected and contralateral extremity, with assessment of thresholds for warmth, cold and heat-and cold pain. RESULTS 43 patients (20 men, 23 men) were diagnosed with CRPS 1 (70.5%) and 18 patients (8 women and 10 men) with CRPS 2 (29.5%). Three subgroups were defined based on thermal thresholds; A (thermal allodynia 22.9%), B (thermal hyposensitivity 37.3%), C (thermal allodynia and hyposensitivity 39.3%). Paroxysmal pain was more prevalent in patients with thermal allodynia (merging group A + C, 25/38-65.8%) compared to patients without thermal allodynia (group B, 5/23-21.7%) (p-value=0.00085). CONCLUSIONS We suggest that cold allodynia is based on hyper-excitability of very superficial skin nociceptors. The correlation between paroxysmal pain, allodynia to light touch and cold allodynia suggests that activity in those peripheral nociceptors can drive both, paroxysmal pain and spinal sensitization leading to stroke evoked allodynia. Mechanistically, the physical cold stimulus can unmask disease-related hyperexcitability by closure of temperature-sensitive potassium channels or induction of resurgent currents. Small fiber degeneration alone may not be the crucial mechanism in CRPS, nor explain pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Kristian Lunden
- Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Inge Petter Kleggetveit
- Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Martin Schmelz
- Department of Experimental Pain Research, MCTN, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ellen Jorum
- Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Tuttle AM, Pomaville MB, Delgado KC, Wright KM, Nechiporuk AV. c-Kit Receptor Maintains Sensory Axon Innervation of the Skin through Src Family Kinases. J Neurosci 2022; 42:JN-RM-0618-22. [PMID: 35882558 PMCID: PMC9464017 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0618-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral somatosensory neurons innervate the skin and sense the environment. Whereas many studies focus on initial axon outgrowth and pathfinding, how signaling pathways contribute to maintenance of the established axon arbors and terminals within the skin is largely unknown. This question is particularly relevant to the many types of neuropathies that affect mature neuronal arbors. We show that a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK), c-Kit, contributes to maintenance, but not initial development, of cutaneous axons in the larval zebrafish before sex determination. Downregulation of Kit signaling rapidly induced retraction of established axon terminals in the skin and a reduction in axonal density. Conversely, misexpression of c-Kit ligand in the skin in larval zebrafish induced increases in local sensory axon density, suggesting an important role for Kit signaling in cutaneous axon maintenance. We found Src family kinases (SFKs) act directly downstream to mediate Kit's role in regulating cutaneous axon density. Our data demonstrate a requirement for skin-to-axon signaling to maintain axonal networks and elucidate novel roles for Kit and SFK signaling in this context. This Kit-SFK signaling axis offers a potential pathway to therapeutically target in sensory neuropathies and to further explore in other neurobiological processes.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe skin is full of small nerve endings that sense different environmental stimuli. How these nerve endings grow and reach a specific area of the skin during development has been the focus of many studies. In contrast, the cellular and molecular mechanisms required to maintain the function and health of these structures is relatively unknown. We discovered that a specific receptor in sensory neurons, c-Kit, is required to maintain the density of nerve endings in the skin. Furthermore, we found that a molecular target of c-Kit, Src family kinases (SFKs), is necessary for this role. Thus, c-Kit/SFK signaling regulates density and maintenance of sensory nerve endings in the skin and may have important roles in neural disease and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam M Tuttle
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Cancer Biology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Matthew B Pomaville
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Cancer Biology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Katherine C Delgado
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Cancer Biology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Kevin M Wright
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Alex V Nechiporuk
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Cancer Biology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
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Raicher I, Ravagnani LHC, Correa SG, Dobo C, Mangueira CLP, Macarenco RSES. Investigation of nerve fibers in the skin by biopsy: technical aspects, indications, and contribution to diagnosis of small-fiber neuropathy. EINSTEIN-SAO PAULO 2022; 20:eMD8044. [PMID: 35830153 PMCID: PMC9262281 DOI: 10.31744/einstein_journal/2022md8044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin biopsy with investigation of small-diameter nerve fibers in human epidermis and dermis has been proven to be a useful method for confirming small-fiber neuropathy. In medical practice, small-fiber neuropathy is increasingly recognized as a leading cause of neuropathic pain. It is a prevalent complaint in medical offices, brought by patients often as a “painful burning sensation”. The prevalence of neuropathic pain is high in small-fiber neuropathies of different etiologies, especially in the elderly; 7% of population in this age group present peripheral neuropathy. Pain and paresthesia are symptoms which might cause disability and impair quality of life of patients. The early detection of small-fiber neuropathy can contribute to reducing unhealthy lifestyles, associated to higher incidence of the disease.
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Just Breathe: Improving LEP Outcomes through Long Interval Breathing. CLINICAL AND TRANSLATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/ctn6020013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Laser-evoked potentials (LEPs) constitute an objective clinical diagnostic method used to investigate the functioning of the nociceptor system, including signaling in thin peripheral nerve fibers: Aδ and C fibers. There is preliminary evidence that phase locking LEPs with the breathing cycle can improve the parameters used to evaluate LEPs. Methods: We tested a simple breathing protocol as a low-cost improvement to LEP testing of the hands. Twenty healthy participants all underwent three variants of LEP protocols: following a video-guided twelve-second breathing instruction, watching a nature video, or using the classic LEP method of focusing on the hand being stimulated. Results: The breath protocol produced significantly shorter latencies as compared with the nature or classic protocol. It was also the least prone to artifacts and was deemed most acceptable by the subjects. There was no difference between the protocols regarding LEP amplitudes. Conclusions: Using a breathing video can be a simple, low-cost improvement for LEP testing in research and clinical diagnostics.
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Trisvetova EL. Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome as a Manifestation of Post-COVID-19 Syndrome. RATIONAL PHARMACOTHERAPY IN CARDIOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.20996/1819-6446-2022-04-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The pandemic of coronavirus infection, the complex and insufficiently studied mechanisms of which cause disorders in the functions of many organs and systems of the body, has led to the emergence of new problems that are far from being resolved. Researchers note the difficulty in predicting the course of the disease and outcome due to the detection of many symptoms that arose at the height of the disease and persisted for 3-6 months after recovery. The term "post-COVID-19syndrome" has appeared, reflecting the condition of a patient who has undergone COVID-19, with a negative PCR test, and with symptoms lasting more than 12 weeks from the onset of the disease, which cannot be explained by an alternative diagnosis. Postural orthostatic tachycardia as a manifestation of the post-COVID-19syndrome has been described in young women who have undergone coronavirus infection of varying severity. In the case of the development of the syndrome of postural orthostatic tachycardia, the quality of life deteriorates, and the ability to work of patients is limited. There is no evidence base for drug therapy of postural tachycardia syndrome, in most cases empirical drug and non-drug methods of treatment are used.
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