Small fiber neuropathy diagnosis

Abstract

Small fiber neuropathies affect small, poorly myelinated sensory Aδ and amyelinated C autonomic fibers. Neuropathic pain is often the main symptom. Positive diagnosis is based on the presence of deficient thermo-algesic sensory signs and/or dysautonomic signs with normal neurography. Several tests help to confirm the involvement of small fibers, ranging from simple tests such as the sympathetic skin response to skin biopsy, which measures the density of intraepidermal nerve fibers. The availability of these different tests varies greatly from one center to another. There are multiple etiologies, from rare genetic causes to the more frequent acquired dysimmune or metabolic causes. However, in more than half of the cases, no etiology is identified.