Hello all
I was referred to a neurologist for numbness in my left lower leg and I saw him today. The outcome was that no peripheral neuropathy present at the moment (also have numb toes and a range of pains) but a very specific nerve is not working (can't remember its name). He said it was due to vasculitis caused by Sjogrens and the sudden loss of sensation fits the pattern and will pass on the results to my Rheumy asap.
My questions are how do you confirm it
who treats it
and what does it mean for me longterm?
A quick search showed a host of info but I don't know which ones are related to Sjogrens and how it will affect me.
Bearing in mind I'm totally sero-negative and am not receiving treatment at the moment.
I appreciate any input from those with similiar issues
Thanks.....
If his diagnosis that there is NO peripheral neuropathy was solely based upon a normal nerve conduction test then he's short changed you. A nerve conduction study can only determine if large nerve fiber are effected. It cannot detect problems in small, unmyelinated, nerve fibers. These can only be checked with a skin biopsy to check for nerve fiber density and inspection of the fibers them self.
I would ask for a skin biopsy to determine/confirm if you have small fiber neuropathy.
Quote from: anita on January 08, 2013, 12:57:52 PM
If his diagnosis that there is NO peripheral neuropathy was solely based upon a normal nerve conduction test then he's short changed you. A nerve conduction study can only determine if large nerve fiber are effected. It cannot detect problems in small, unmyelinated, nerve fibers. These can only be checked with a skin biopsy to check for nerve fiber density and inspection of the fibers them self.
I would ask for a skin biopsy to determine/confirm if you have small fiber neuropathy.
This exactly, in order to diagnose small fiber that is part of SjS biopsy is the most accurate way. I advise you to print this and take it to them .. http://www.ccjm.org/content/76/5/297.full
I am having the nerve test and emg study done next week also I intend to show them this and make sure they know these test cant dx that.
thank you for your feedback on that. I'm waiting for a call from my Rheumy and I'll discuss this with him
Take care