Pinprick Sensation Research Articles

Just supplement Thiamine! A simple yet dramatic solution! (P9-4.004)

<h3>Objective:</h3> We present a case showing how while the diagnostic process in neuropathy may be long and cumbersome, the solution is usually simple, dramatic and life changing. <h3>Background:</h3> 55-year-old female with acute-on-chronic, rapidly progressive numbness and weakness. She first noted numbness and tingling in her feet over 8 years ago, but with rapid progression over the past year up to her trunk and hands. She presented to the ER after falling in the house, laying on the floor for hours, unable to be lifted by her husband. Examination revealed several bruises, symmetric wasting of upper and lower extremity muscles, proximal greater than distal weakness, loss of pinprick, vibration and temperature sensation from toes up to the thighs. She was areflexic with bowel and bladder incontinence and urine retention of 1L on arrival. She gave a history of excessive alcohol intake since her teenage years, with a heavy increase in intake over the COVID pandemic due to loss of employment and depression. Low folic acid, ESR 72, CT abdomen notable for steatohepatitis, fecal loading and urine retention. CSF analysis showed no albumino-cytological dissociation. Autoimmune workup, RPR, B12, serum copper, CSF paraneoplastic panel, CT chest, MRI brain and complete spine were unremarkable. EMG/NCV showed moderate, length dependent, sensory-motor axonal polyneuropathy. <h3>Design/Methods:</h3> N/A <h3>Results:</h3> She was started on high dose thiamine and folic acid supplementation in hospital. Initially, she was unable to feed herself, turn in bed or sit without support. She slowly recovered, regained continence and can ambulate independently with a walker now. She can play the piano. <h3>Conclusions:</h3> Thiamine associated neuropathy or Dry Beri-Beri can present with axonal predominant sensorimotor polyneuropathy that can mimic Guillain Barre Syndrome. While workup for other etiologies of neuropathy should be simultaneously pursued in alcoholics, thiamine supplementation is a simple treatment that can lead to satisfying and dramatic results. <b>Disclosure:</b> Dr. Bhende has nothing to disclose. Dr. Zafar has nothing to disclose. Dr. Prabhu has nothing to disclose. Dr. Undavia has nothing to disclose.

Etiological study of superficial radial nerve neuropathy: series of 34 patients.

Superficial radial nerve (SRN) neuropathy is a rare focal neuropathy leading to pain and paresthesia of the dorsolateral aspect of the hand. Reported causes include trauma, extrinsic compression, or it may be idiopathic. We describe the clinical and electrodiagnostic (EDX) features of 34 patients with SRN neuropathy of varied etiology. This is a retrospective study of patients with upper limb neuropathy referred for EDX studies who were found to have SRN neuropathy based on clinical and EDX findings. Twelve patients also had ultrasound (US) evaluations. Decreased pinprick sensation was noted in the distribution of the SRN in 31 (91%) patients, and a positive Tinel's sign was observed in 9 (26%). Sensory nerve action potentials (SNAPs) were not recordable in 11 (32%) patients. Of the patients who had a recordable SNAP, the latency was delayed, and the amplitude was decreased in all cases. Of the 12 patients who underwent US studies, 6 (50%) had an increased cross-sectional area of the SRN at or immediately proximal to the site of injury/compression. A cyst was located adjacent to the SRN in 2 patients. The most common cause of SRN neuropathy was trauma in 19 (56%) patients, of which 15 were iatrogenic. A compressive etiology was identified in 6 patients (18%). No specific etiology was detected in 10 patients (29%). This study is aimed at raising the awareness among surgeons about the clinical features and varied causes of SRN neuropathy; such knowledge may potentially lessen iatrogenic causes of injury.

The Minimum Effective Concentration (MEC95) of different volumes of ropivacaine for ultrasound-guided caudal epidural block: a dose-finding study

BackgroundCaudal epidural block (CEB) may be beneficial in anorectal surgery because its use may extend postoperative analgesia. This dose-finding study aimed to estimate the minimum effective anesthetic concentrations for 95% patients(MEC95) of 20 ml or 25 ml of ropivacaine in with CEB.Patients and methodsIn this double-blind, prospective study, the concentration of ropivacaine administered in 20 ml and 25 ml for ultrasound-guided CEB were determined using the sample up-and-down sequential allocation study design of binary response variables. The first participant was given 0.5% ropivacaine. Depending on whether a block was successful or unsuccessful, the concentration of local anesthesia was decreased or increased by 0.025% in the next patient. Every five minutes for 30 min, the sensory blockade using a pin-prick sensation at S3 dermatome compared to at T6 dermatome were evaluated every 5 min within 30 min. An effective CEB was defined as a a reduction of sensation at S3 dermatome and the existence of flaccid anal sphincter. Anesthesia was considered successful if the surgeon could perform the surgery without additional anesthesia. We determined the MEC50 using the Dixon and Massey up-and-down method and estimated the MEC95 using probit regression.ResultsThe concentration of ropivacaine administered in 20 ml for CEB ranged from 0.2% to 0.5%. Probit regression with a bias-corrected Morris 95% CI derived by bootstrapping showed an MEC50 and MEC 50 of ropivacaine for anorectal surgical anesthesia were 0.27% (95% CI, 0.24 to 0.31) and 0.36%(95% CI, 0.32 to 0.61). The concentration of ropivacaine administered in 25 ml for CEB ranged from 0.175 to 0.5. Probit regression with a bias-corrected Morris 95% CI derived by bootstrapping showed an MEC50 and MEC95 for CEB were 0.24% (95% CI, 0.19 to 0.27) and 0.32% (95% CI, 0.28 to 0.54).ConclusionWith ultrasound-guided CEB, the MEC95 of 0.36% ropivacaine at 20 ml and 0.32% ropivacaine at 25 ml provide adequate surgical anesthesia/analgesia 95% of patients undergoing anorectoal surgery.Trial registrationClinicaltrails.gov: Retrospectively registered (ChiCTR2100042954; Registration date:1/2, 2021).

Chronic Musculocutaneous Nerve Injury: An Important Differential in Progressive Arm Atrophy

An isolated musculocutaneous nerve (MCN) injury is a rare condition that can be easily missed if it presents late. A 28-year-old man reported painless and progressive wasting of the right arm for 6 months. On examination, there was visible wasting of the right biceps brachii muscle along with its slight weakness, depressed biceps jerk, and an impaired pinprick sensation in the lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve distribution. He described a history of a road traffic accident 14 months beforehand. Based on the history and clinical examination, the differential diagnosis included an isolated MCN injury, upper trunk plexopathy, lateral cord plexopathy, C5/6 radiculopathy, and monomelic amyotrophy involving the C5/6 myotomes on the right side. The results of nerve conduction studies and electromyography were consistent with chronic proximal MCN neuropathy (right). In cases of arm wasting without pain or numbness, MCN injury should be included in the differential diagnosis, even in the presence of good power of the elbow flexors. The importance of detailed history-taking and clinical correlation cannot be over-emphasized in such cases.

Assessment of C Fibers Evoked Potentials in Healthy Subjects by Nd : YAP Laser.

Although laser stimuli activate both Ad- and C-fibres, the corresponding laser evoked potentials (LEPs) remain restricted to the Ad-fibers input, while the C-fibers related potential is hardly detectable. To evaluate multichannel ultralate LEPs (U-LEPs) by using Nd : Yap laser pulses in healthy volunteers to stimulation of face and lower and upper limbs, in order to estimate the reliability of C-LEPs elicited from both trigeminal and somatic sites. Twenty healthy volunteers participated in two stimulation sessions to record Aδ-LEPs and C-LEPs. We used a Nd : YAP Laser and 62 EEG recording electrodes. Stimuli parameters were set to activate either small myelinated (Aδ), eliciting purely warmth sensations, or unmyelinated (C) afferents, and eliciting pinprick sensations. At the trigeminal level, we obtained a negative-positive complex in a time interval compatible with the C fibers activation. In the somatic districts, the averaged responses consisted of an earlier negative-positive complex, followed by a later one. Single trials analysis of U-LEPs showed a maximal positive peak in a time interval in the range of C fibers. Topographical analysis of U-LEPs resembled that of LEPs. All subjects exhibited readable U-LEPs in at least 2 stimulated sites. Discussion. A purely warmth sensation seems to correspond to Aδ and C-fibers coactivation, at least in the somatic districts. While the related cortical waves seem hardly readable, their total absence could be a sign of systemic involvement of warm related C-fibers in specific clinical conditions.

Immediate Postoperative Complications and Recovery Profile Following Spinal Anaesthesia: A Comparison Between Pethidine and Bupivacaine

Background: Spinal anaesthesia is a less expensive option to general anaesthesia for surgical procedures below the umbilicus in resource-constrained settings with a shortage of medical gases and specialized an anesthetists. The patient’s airway is not harmed by spinal anaesthesia, and both the patient and the doctor benefits from a host of additional benefits. Following the discontinuation of hyperbaric lidocaine for intrathecal injection because it can results in radiculopathy, bupivacaine is frequently used for spinal anaesthesia. For spinal, doctors employ pethidine, a lipophilic opioid with local aesthetic properties. In this study, pethidine bupivacaine were used as the only anaesthetic a gents to perform spinal anaesthesia, and the immediate postoperative problems and recovery profile were compared. Methodology: For quick surgical procedures on the lower body, 52 American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I and II patients between the ages of 18 and 60 were randomly assigned to receive spinalanaesthesia. The patients' recovery times for pinprick sensation at S2, plantar flexion, big toe proprioception, and full motor recovery (Bromage score 0) were compared after receiving either 2.5mL of isobaric 0.5 percent bupivacaine or 1mg/Kg of preservative-free pethidine. The immediate postoperative period complications of pain, drowsiness, nausea and vomiting, pruritus, and urine retention were compared. Results: The time to return of pinkprick sensation at S2 was 94.6220.25 minutes and 205.9631.05 minutes, respectively, when pethidine and bupivacaine were compared. Pethidine and bupivacaine had a time to return of plantar flexion of 92.8812.01 minutes and viii 1 93.8539.56 minutes, respectively. Between pedthidine and bupivacaine, the mean recovery times f or the big toe’s proprioception were 31.159.41 and 172.5042.70 minutes, respectively, for full motor recovery (Bromage score 0). All recovery time variation were significant (p 0.0001) across the broad. There was no discernible change in the incidence of pain or sedation in the immediate postoperative period. In the Bupivacaine group, four patients (15. 38%) reported having hardly bearable discomfort. Both groups did not experience any instances of nausea or vomiting. Pruritus was experience by five patients (19.22%) in the pethidine group, but none in the bupivacaine group (0.00 %). Urinary retention incidence varied, and this difference was significant (p = 0.048) Conclusion: Compared to bupivacaine, pethidine had a quicker recovery profile and didn't lead to any major complications right after surgery.

Role of glycated hemoglobin in microvascular complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus: cross sectional study

Background. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a complex disorder which defects mainly vascular complications. Complications increase the morbidity and mortality associated with the disease, reducing life expectancy by 10–15 years. Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is a frequent complication of DM and is defined as the presence of peripheral nerve dysfunction after exclusion of other causes. Poor glycaemic control and chronic hyperglycaemia are the major risk factors for DN. Most important treatment of DN remains good glucose control generally noted as HbA1c ≤ 7.5 %. The purpose of this cross-sectional study is to investigate the role of glycated hemoglobin in microvascular complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Materials and methods. This cross-sectional study was carried out in Teerthanker Mahaveer Medical College and Research Center, Moradabad from Jan 2016 to December 2016 in which 100 type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) patients in the age group of 35–69 years were included. Patients were divided into 2 groups of 50 each. Group 1 constituted of T2DM patients without any microvascular complication and group 2 includes T2DM patients with microvascular complications. Examination of patients included recording of medical history, pulse rate and blood pressure. Neuropathy was assessed by clinical examination based on modified NDS procedure, which included examination of vibration, pin prick sensation, temperature sensation on dorsum of foot and Achilles tendon reflex. Blood samples were collected by venepuncture and accordingly biochemistry analysis was carried out (Fasting Blood Glucose, post prandial blood glucose and HbA1c were recorded). HbA1c estimation was done by using COBAS fully automated analyser. Results. Among recruited patients, Mean fasting, PPBS level, HbA1c among test group was significantly more than control group. In control group significant correlation of HbA1c is found with age, weight and BMI and in test group significant correlation of HbA1c is observed with age and duration of DM. Significant correlation of HbA1c with FBS and PPBS seen in both control group and in test group. Among test group, 19 patients were found to have DN and significant correlation of HbA1c is observed with NDS score. Conclusions. Increased HbA1c is closely associated with DN in T2DM patients and could be considered as a potent indicator for DN in these patients.

Electrophysiological indices of pain expectation abnormalities in fibromyalgia patients

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome characterized by dysfunctional processing of nociceptive stimulation. Neuroimaging studies have pointed out that pain-related network functioning seems to be altered in these patients. It is thought that this clinical symptomatology may be maintained or even strengthened because of an enhanced expectancy for painful stimuli or its forthcoming appearance. However, neural electrophysiological correlates associated with such attentional mechanisms have been scarcely explored. In the current study, expectancy processes of upcoming laser stimulation (painful and non-painful) and its further processing were explored by event-related potentials (ERPs). Nineteen fibromyalgia patients and twenty healthy control volunteers took part in the experiment. Behavioral measures (reaction times and subjective pain perception) were also collected. We manipulated the pain/no pain expectancy through an S1–S2 paradigm (cue-target). S1 (image: triangle or square) predicted the S2 appearance (laser stimulation: warmth or pinprick sensation). Laser stimuli were delivered using a CO2 laser device. Temporal and spatial principal component analyses were employed to define and quantify the ERP component reliability. Statistical analyses revealed the existence of an abnormal pattern of pain expectancy in patients with fibromyalgia. Specifically, our results showed attenuated amplitudes at posterior lCNV component in anticipation of painful stimulation that was not found in healthy participants. In contrast, although larger P2 amplitudes to painful compared to innocuous events were shown, patients did not show any amplitude change in this laser-evoked response as a function of pain predictive cues (as occurred in the healthy control group). Additionally, analyses of the subjective perception of pain and reaction time indicated that laser stimuli preceded by pain cues were rated as more painful than those signaling non-pain expectancy and were associated with faster responses. Differences between groups were not found. The present findings suggest the presence of dysfunction in pain expectation mechanisms in fibromyalgia that eventually may make it difficult for patients to correctly interpret signs that prevent pain symptoms. Furthermore, the abnormal pattern in pain expectancy displayed by fibromyalgia patients could result in ineffective pain coping strategies. Understanding the neural correlates of pain processing and its modulatory factors is crucial to identify treatments for chronic pain syndromes.

Sudomotor dysfunction and corneal nerve loss: An unusual presentation of syringomyelia and COVID-19 infection

Aim: To highlight unusual neurological findings in a patient with syringomyelia and COVID-19. Methods: Neurological examination, Vibration Perception Threshold (VPT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the full neuroaxis, electrophysiologic studies, Corneal Confocal Microscopy (CCM) and Sudoscan were performed. Results: A previously fit and well 28-year-old lady presented with worsening shoulder and neck pain after COVID-19. She was found to have reduced pinprick sensation in both arms and base of the neck and MRI revealed a cervical syrinx. Electrophysiologic studies showed no evidence of upper limb neuropathy or cervical radiculopathy, but CCM showed corneal nerve loss and Sudoscan demonstrated severe sudomotor dysfunction in both hands. Conclusion: We present an unusual case of worsening pain with sudomotor dysfunction and corneal nerve fibre loss in a patient with syringomyelia and COVID-19 infection.

Rhabdomyolysis Occurring After Use of Cocaine Contaminated With Fentanyl Causing Bilateral Brachial Plexopathy.

Rhabdomyolysis is caused by muscle overuse, trauma, prolonged immobilization, drugs, or toxins. As rhabdomyolysis progresses, swelling and edema can compress surrounding structures. Few cases of the phenomenon occurring as a sequela of substance use have been described. We present a 68-year-old male patient with rhabdomyolysis following use of crack cocaine contaminated with fentanyl. The patient had 0/5 strength bilaterally and bilateral absent reflexes in the upper extremities. Sensation was markedly decreased, as he was unable to feel temperature, pinprick sensation, or general touch. Creatine phosphokinase level was elevated at 21,292 IU/L. On magnetic resonance imaging, there was abnormal signal in the lower neck bilaterally. It is presumed that muscular edema resulted in partial narrowing of the thoracic outlet bilaterally with corresponding mass effect on the traversing brachial plexus. This is the seventh case of brachial plexopathy secondary to rhabdomyolysis precipitated by opioid use that has been reported in the literature. Prospective studies should examine treatment for this condition.

Effects of eye acupuncture on motor evoked potential and somatosensory evoked potential in patients with incomplete spinal cord injury based on neuroelectrophysiological technology

To observe the effects of eye acupuncture on motor evoked potential (MEP) and somatosensory evoked potential (SEP) in the patients with incomplete spinal cord injury so as to evaluate its clinical efficacy. According to the random number table, 90 patients were divided into exercise therapy group, eye acupuncture group and eye acupuncture combined exercise therapy group (combined treatment group), 30 cases in each. In the exercise therapy group, patients were treated with the routine exercise and occupational therapy. Patients of the eye acupuncture group were treated with eye acupuncture at upper jiao region, lower jiao region, liver region and kidney region bilaterally. Patients of the combined treatment group were given the routine exercise and occupational therapy combined with eye acupuncture. All the treatments were conducted once daily, 7 days as one treatment course for 4 treatment courses. Before treatment and 4 weeks after treatment, the motor function, light touch sensation and pinprick sensation, injury grade and clinical efficacy were assessed separately, using the criteria developed by the American Spinal Injury Association. The modified Barthel index(MBI) was adopted to evaluate the activities of daily livings. By monitoring SEP and MEP, the neurophysiological conditions were assessed for spinal cord injury. The total effective rate was 56.7% (17/30), 66.7% (20/30) and 90.0% (27/30) in the exercise therapy group, the eye acupuncture group and the combined treatment group, respectively. The total effective rate in the combined treatment group was higher than those in the other two groups (P<0.05). Compared with those before treatment, the scores of motor function, light tough sensation and pinprick sensation were all increased after treatment in three groups (P<0.05), MBI score was increased in both the exercise therapy group and the combined treatment group (P<0.05), and the latency of SEP (N11, N20, N23, P38) and the Cortical (hand region), Csp, Cortical (leg region) and Lsp of MEP were all shortened in the three groups separately (P<0.05). After treatment, compared with the exercise therapy group, the score of motor function was increased (P<0.05), MBI score decreased (P<0.05) and MEP latency shortened (P<0.05) in the eye acupuncture group. After treatment, compared with the exercise therapy group and the eye acupuncture group, the scores of motor function, light touch sensation and pinprick sensation, as well as MBI score were all increased (P<0.05), and the latency of SEP (N11,N20,N23,P38) and MEP shortened (P<0.05) in the combined treatment group. In treatment of incomplete spinal cord injury, eye acupuncture combined with exercise therapy can significantly increase the excitability of sensory and motor nerve conduction in the spinal cord and cerebral cortex of patients, effectively promote the recovery of patients' motor and sensory function and improve the activities of daily living.

Cognitive Multisensory Rehabilitation for Sensory and Motor Function in Adults with Spinal Cord Injury: Proof of Concept

<h3>Research Objectives</h3> About 296,000 Americans have a spinal cord injury (SCI) resulting in reduced or complete loss of motor and sensory function, including loss of body awareness. The objective is to establish the proof of concept of using Cognitive Multisensory Rehabilitation (CMR), for sensory and motor improvement in adults with SCI. <h3>Design</h3> Single group, pre-post design. <h3>Setting</h3> Brain Body Mind Lab, University of Minnesota. <h3>Participants</h3> We recruited 3 men and 3 women, mean age of 52.00±12.22 years, 2-16 years after a complete (n=3) or incomplete (n=3) SCI injury, ranging from T6 to L2, with resulting paraplegia and neuropathic pain. Recruitment methods included fliers, recruitment letters, and posting of the study on ClinicalTrials.gov. <h3>Interventions</h3> A physical therapist, specialized in CMR treated the participants for 6 weeks (3x/week, 45min/session). CMR tasks help restore awareness of where the body is in space and restore sensory function through texture discrimination and discrimination of sponges that have varying resistance. <h3>Main Outcome Measures</h3> Outcome measures were recorded pre-therapy, post-therapy, and at 6 weeks follow-up. Sensory (pinprick, touch) and lower limb motor function were tested using the American Spinal Cord Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale. <h3>Results</h3> Touch sensation (average change score of 4.50±3.75, effect size Cohen's d=0.71, moderate effect size); pinprick sensation (4.08±2.81, d=0.68, moderate effect size) and lower limb motor function (5.58±3.40, d=1.23, large effect size) improved after CMR compared to baseline. Both sensory function and motor function were maintained at the 6-week follow-up testing (average change score baseline to follow-up: touch=7.58±4.42, d=1.11, large effect size; pinprick=5.00±2.34, d=0.81, large effect size; lower limb motor function=6.50±3.29, d=1.56, large effect size). <h3>Conclusions</h3> The pilot study confirms the proof of concept that CMR can improve sensory and motor function. Further validation is needed. <h3>Author(s) Disclosures</h3> No conflict of interests.

Brachioradial Pruritus: Clinical, Electromyographic, and Cervical MRI Features in Nine Patients.

BackgroundBrachioradial pruritus (BRP) is a neuropathic dysesthesia manifesting as pruritus over the dorsolateral forearm. While the etiology is unknown, intensive sun exposure and cervical spine disease have been proposed. This study describes the clinical, electrodiagnostic (EDX), and cervical MRI findings in nine patients diagnosed with BRP.Materials and methodsAll patients underwent EDX and cervical MRIs. Numerous metrics were documented including presenting symptoms, neurological examination, EDX findings, and cervical MRI features.ResultsAll nine patients experienced pruritus of the arms/forearms, typical of BRP, which was unilateral in eight (89%) cases. Decreased pinprick sensation was noted in the arms/forearms (five [56%] patients) or of the thumbs, index, and/or middle fingers (four [44%] patients). Four (44%) patients had either decreased or absent biceps and brachioradialis deep tendon reflexes (DTRs), while one (11%) patient had decreased triceps and brachioradialis DTRs. The EDX revealed abnormalities in eight (89%) patients. Increased polyphasic units, decreased motor units, and/or denervation changes were recorded by needle electromyography (EMG) in eight (89%) patients: the biceps in seven (88%) and both the brachioradialis and triceps in four (50%) patients. The EMG abnormalities indicated chronic radiculopathy involving C6 in six patients and C5 and C6 in one patient. All nine patients had cervical spine disease, encompassing disc protrusions, spondylosis, spinal stenosis, and/or foraminal stenosis.ConclusionsBRP in this series of patients was accompanied by chronic cervical radiculopathy involving predominantly C6 and C5. EDX and cervical spine MR imaging should be considered essential investigations in the evaluation of patients with BRP.

Randomized Controlled Study Comparing 2-Chloroprocaine and Bupivacaine for Spinal Anesthesia in Gynecological Surgeries.

Background:Ambulatory surgeries are increasing all over. While searching for an ideal anesthetic, the use of lidocaine was linked to a greater rate of transitory neurological symptoms and bupivacaine delays discharge due to a longer duration of motor blockade. 2-chloroprocaine (2CP) with a shorter duration of action is gaining popularity. We aimed to compare intrathecal bupivacaine and 2CP for the subarachnoid block for elective ambulatory gynecological surgeries.Methods:A single-blind study was conducted on 90 patients comparing 40 mg 2CP and 10 mg 0.5% bupivacaine heavy measuring pinprick sensation, motor block, time to ambulation, and voiding of urine so as to get ready for discharge.Results:In both groups, the beginning of sensory blockage occurred at a similar time, while motor blockade achieved was faster in the 2CP group. The resolution of motor blockade was 1.7 times faster in the 2CP group than in the bupivacaine group. Time taken for ambulation was delayed significantly in the bupivacaine group, i.e., 263.04 ± 29.08 min compared to the 2CP group, i.e., 225.44 ± 29.48 min which was a delay of almost 38 min. Voiding of urine was also delayed in the bupivacaine group by 60 min compared to the 2CP group and was significant finding leading to delay of discharge of patients. Adverse effects were comparable in both groups.Conclusion:Intrathecal preservative-free 2CP provides satisfactory surgical block, and has a considerably faster rate of block regression, resulting in earlier ambulation and voiding, allowing the patient to be discharged from the hospital sooner as compared to intrathecal bupivacaine.

Evaluation of Effect of Hip/Shoulder-Width Ratio on the Sensory Level of Spinal Anesthesia - A Prospective Observational Study.

Background:Certain anthropometric measurements that are practically obtainable explain the variability in the spread of spinal anesthesia. These are useful for quick assessment of the spread of spinal anesthesia to avoid the risk of high block and also the inadequate level of block.Aims:The study aims to evaluate the effect of hip/shoulder-width ratio (HSR) on the sensory level of spinal anesthesia.Settings and Design:This prospective observational study was undertaken at a tertiary care hospital.Statistical Analysis:Pearson's correlation and multiple linear regression analyses were used to analyze the relationship between study variables with the level of sensory block.Materials and Methods:One hundred patients undergoing various surgical procedures were enrolled for the study. With a patient in a sitting position, hip-width was measured between the two iliac crests, shoulder-width was measured between two acromion processes, and vertebral column length was noted by measuring the distance from C7 vertebra to sacral hiatus. 3 mL of 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine was administered intrathecally at L3–L4 with 25G Quincke's needle in the lateral position. Assessment of block level was done by loss of cold sensation and loss of pinprick sensation every 5 min till 30 min. The numbers of segments blocked were noted from the S5 segment. The relationship between various factors with the level of sensory block was analyzed by the Pearson's correlation coefficient.Results:HSR and body mass index (BMI) have a significant correlation with the sensory level of spinal anaesthesia, HSR (r = 0.297, P < 0.05) and BMI (r =0.385, P < 0.05).Conclusion:HSR can help predict the cephalad spread of spinal anesthesia. We can expect a higher level of sensory blockade of spinal anesthesia in females who generally have an HSR more than one.

A New Score Based on the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury for Integrative Evaluation of Changes in Sensorimotor Functions.

Sensorimotor function of patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) is commonly assessed according to the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI). From the ISNCSCI segmental motor and sensory assessments, upper and lower extremity motor scores (UEMS and LEMS), sum scores of pinprick (PP) and light touch (LT) sensation, the neurological level of injury (NLI) and the classification of lesion severity according to the American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) grade are derived. Changes of these parameters over time are used widely to evaluate neurological recovery. Evaluating recovery based on a single ISNCSCI scoring or classification variable, however, may misestimate overall recovery. Here, we propose an Integrated Neurological Change Score (INCS) based on the combination of normalized changes between two time points of UEMS, LEMS, and total PP and LT scores. To assess the agreement of INCS with clinical judgment of meaningfulness of neurological changes, changes of ISNCSCI variables between two time points of 88 patients from an independent cohort were rated by 20 clinical experts according to a five-categories Likert Scale. As for individual ISNCSCI variables, neurological change measured by INCS is associated with severity (AIS grade), age, and time since injury, but INCS better reflects clinical judgment about meaningfulness of neurological changes than individual ISNCSCI variables. In addition, INCS is related to changes in functional independence measured by the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM) in patients with tetraplegia. The INCS may be a useful measure of overall neurological change in clinical studies.

Skin Advanced Glycation End Products among Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with or without Distal Sensorimotor Polyneuropathy

Materials and Methods We included 132 subjects (88 men) with a mean age of 64.57 years and median T2DM duration of 14.5 years. Skin AGEs were measured with AGE reader mu connect (Diagnoptics) on the dominant arm. The device enables single and automated triplicate measurements: both of these were performed. DSPN was diagnosed through the neuropathy disability score (NDS). Small nerve fibre function was assessed by temperature and pinprick sensation on the foot. Bilateral measurement of the vibration perception threshold (VPT) on the hallux was carried out by using a neurothesiometer (Horwell Scientific Laboratory Supplies). Results Single and triplicate AGE measurements were positively correlated with each other (Pearson's correlation coefficient r = 0.991, 95%CI = 0.987-0.994, p < 0.001). AGEs were higher among subjects with vs. those without DSPN (p < 0.001). Furthermore, they were higher among subjects with reduced vs. normal temperature sensation (p < 0.001), among subjects with reduced vs. normal pinprick sensation (p = 0.002), among those with abnormal vs. normal monofilament examination (p < 0.001), and among those with abnormal vs. normal VPT (p < 0.001). AGEs were correlated with NDS, VPT, and monofilament score. Conclusions In T2DM, skin AGEs are increased in the presence of DSPN. This holds true both for large and for small nerve function impairment. Moreover, AGEs are correlated with DSPN severity.

Identifying Discomplete Spinal Lesions: New Evidence from Pain-Autonomic Interaction in Spinal Cord Injury.

The clinical evaluation of spinal afferents is an important diagnostic and prognostic marker for neurological and functional recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). Particularly important regarding neuropathic pain following SCI is the function of the spinothalamic tract (STT) conveying nociceptive and temperature information. Here, we investigated the added value of neurophysiological methods revealing discomplete STT lesions; that is, residual axonal sparing in clinically complete STT lesions. Specifically, clinical pinprick testing and thermal thresholds were compared with objective contact heat-evoked potentials (CHEPs) and a novel measure of pain-autonomic interaction employing heat-induced sympathetic skin responses (SSR). The test stimuli (i.e., contact heat, pinprick) were applied below the lesion level in 32 subjects with thoracic SCI while corresponding heat-evoked responses (i.e., CHEPs and SSR) were recorded above the lesion (i.e., scalp and hand, respectively). Readouts of STT function were related to neuropathic pain characteristics. In subjects with abolished pinprick sensation, measures of thermosensation (10%), CHEPs (33%), and SSR (48%) revealed residual STT function. Importantly, SSRs can be used as an objective readout and when abolished, no other proxy indicated residual STT function. No relationship was found between STT function readouts and spontaneous neuropathic pain intensity and extent. However, subjects with clinically preserved STT function presented more often with allodynia (54%) than subjects with discomplete (13%) or complete STT lesions (18%). In individuals with absent pinprick sensation, discomplete STT lesions can be revealed employing pain-autonomic measures. The improved sensitivity to discerning STT lesion completeness might support the investigation of its association with neuropathic pain following SCI.

Diagnostic tools should be used for the diagnosis of chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy in breast cancer patients receiving taxanes.

BackgroundThough the incidence, characteristics, and pathogenesis of chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) by taxane based chemotherapy were extensively studied, diagnostic guidelines extent only recently.AimTo observationally investigate whether specific tests can be used to predict and monitor CIPN severity.MethodsFourteen female breast cancer patients receiving paclitaxel or docetaxel were evaluated using the McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ), National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria (NCI‐CTC) grading, clinical total neuropathy score (TNSc), quantitative sensory testing (QST) of pressure pain threshold (PPT), and numeric rating scale (NRS) scores and stocking and glove distribution testing (SGDT), at the start (T0), midst (T1), and end (T2) of their treatment and after 3 months (T3).ResultsAt T3, patients scored NCI‐CTC neuropathy grade 1 (14.3%), 2 (64.3%), and 3 (14.3%) respectively. Fifty percentage scored at least grade 1 at T0, with complaints not caused by CIPN. Pain, if present, was denominated “tingling” and “cold” in the MPQ. Median TNSc score increased from T0 (2.43) to T1 (4.71) to T2 (5.50) to T3 (5.57), as did pinprick and cold sensation disturbances in SGDT. PPT and associated NRS remained unchanged. TNSc and SGDT at T1 could not predict the NCI‐CTC grade at T3.ConclusionNCI‐CTC, TNSc, and stocking and glove distribution testing can be used in the early diagnosis and monitoring of CIPN, with false‐positive findings at baseline. Final NCI‐CTC grades could not be predicted.

COMPARISON BETWEEN PERINEURAL DEXAMETHASONE AND INTRAVENOUS MAGNESIUM SULPHATE AS ADJUVANT IN SUPRACLAVICULAR BLOCK

Abstract Background: Upper extremity surgeries are commonly performed under regional anaesthesia. Regional anaesthesia of the upper extremity has several advantages over general anaesthesia such as improved postoperative pain management, decreased postoperative narcotic consumption, and reduced recovery time. Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare between dexamethasone and magnesium sulphate as adjuvants in supraclavicular brachial plexus block as regards the onset and duration of sensory and motor block as well as side effects. Patients and Methods: This prospective double-blinded comparative study was carried out in Faculty of Medicine, Ain-Shams University Hospital on 120 adult patients between 21-50 years of both sexes with ASA classification 1&amp;2 who were scheduled for elective upper limb orthopaedic surgeries. A written informed consent was obtained from all patients. Every patient received an explanation about the purpose of the study. Procedures had been approved by the institutional and the regional ethical committee. Total 120 patients are enrolled in the study and divided into 3 groups A and B and C (40 for each one). Results From aspect of increasing the duration of sensory &amp;motor block magnesium sulphate group (group A) showed higher prolongation of sensory &amp; motor block with recovery of pin prick sensation in median time 313 mins ± when compared with group B &amp;C even with longer time taken for patient to request rescue analgesia after 5 hours. In group (B) by adding dexamethasone with bupivacaine the blood pressure rate are increased after 20 min of injection and return normal after 240 min, heart rate are normal, but in case of sensory and motor block about 77.5% of study patient in this group have full motor and sensory block, in case of increasing time of motor and sensory block the dexamethasone success increasing time for motor and sensory block to reach 278 min sensory and 314 min in motor block, first call of Analgesic are after 4 hr. Conclusion: Group A (Magnesium sulphate with bupivacaine) were more effective and increasing affected time in motor and sensory block than Group B (Dexamethasone with Bupivacaine) and Group C (Control).