Previous Section
Diagnosis of Peripheral Neuropathy
Diagnostic Evaluation of Peripheral Neuropathy
Nerve biopsy - nerve tissue, typically a segment of the sural nerve (found below the knee and which runs through the calf and into the foot) is removed from the lower leg and upon examination, yields information regarding the degree of nerve damage. This procedure is not frequently performed since it is an invasive procedure and can have neuropathic side effects. However, if this procedure is necessary, it is recommended that it be performed by a physician with extensive experience performing this test and that the laboratory processing the biopsy should be one with experience in analyzing this type of tissue. Skin biopsy is preferred over nerve biopsy since it can visualize small fiber involvement, is less invasive, and is not associated with side effects. Under certain circumstances, nerve biopsy is helpful for documenting inflammatory disorders that may be the cause of neuropathy including:
- Vasculitis
- Sarcoidosis
- CIDP
- Infectious diseases
- Cancer
Computerized Axial Tomography (CAT scan) - to evaluate the presence of any vascular abnormalities, spinal stenosis (narrowing), or tumors
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) - to evaluate muscle quality and size as well as compression of any nerves
