WHAT IS PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition in which the small nerve fibers of the body that innervate the skin and organs are damaged. The condition is initially seen in the feet, but may later progress and affect the hands, face, and torso.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of Small Fiber Peripheral Neuropathy include:
- Burning
- Shooting
- Pins & Needles
- Aching
- Tingling
- Restless Leg Syndrome
- Coldness/Freezing
- Electric Shock
- Numbness
- Tearing
Other signs may be abnormal sweating, dryness of the skin, or hair loss in the legs. Symptoms generally get worse at night when lying in bed with the feet elevated.
RISK FACTORS
Certain conditions may predispose a person to developing small fiber peripheral neuropathy. These risk factors include glucose intolerance (prediabetes or diabetes), anyone over the age of 65, thyroid disease, B12 deficiency, Sjogren’s disease, HIV, Lupus, and some medications. The condition is also more common in men than women.
WHAT IS EPIDERMAL NERVE FIBER DENSITY TESTING
The Epidermal Nerve Fiber Density test (ENFD) is a highly sensitive and specific tool used in the diagnosis and monitoring of Small Fiber Peripheral Neuropathy. This is a minimally invasive simple procedure performed in the office.
A small skin biopsy is performed on the lower part of the leg which is then analyzed by a trained pathologist. The entire procedure is relatively painless, takes about 5-10 minutes with little post procedural care.
If you think you could be suffering from Peripheral Neuropathy, call our office to schedule an appointment and see if the Epidermal Nerve Fiber Density test is right for you.
