Definition
Small fibre neuropathy is a neurological disease of the peripheral nerves, accompanied by pain due to dysfunction of the small nerves.
Aetiology
The aetiology of small fibre neuropathy is largely unknown. It is characterised by a reduction in the number of small C fibres and Aδ fibres.
Small fibre neuropathy is related to other diseases, such as diabetes, sarcoidosis, autoimmune diseases, connective tissue diseases, hypothyroidism, paraneoplastic syndromes, hyperlipidemia, statines, anti-retroviral treatment and infections.
Signs and symptoms
Patients complain of continuous pain in the hands and feet. This pain can be: burning (65.6%), sharp (16.4%), paroxysmal (4.5%), itchy (5.9 %), deep stabbing (4.5%), or accompanied by thermal allodynia (3%).
Autonomic disorders can occur (47.8%) such as hypo- or anhydrosis, and vasomotor dysfunction, including excessive blushing, orthostatic hypotension, urinary bladder and intestinal disorders.
Diagnostics
Physical Examination
A general physical examination and extensive neurological examination are very important for excluding other causes. Referral to an internist, pulmonologist or neurologist is frequently indicated.
The following tests should definitely be included in the neurological examination: (1) testing of all sensory qualities of the arms and legs (attention should be paid to symmetry and to the distal proximal gradient); (2) reflexes; and (3) strength tests. Allodynia and hyperalgesia may present.
Additional Somatic Diagnostics
- Electrophysiology (sensory and motor nerve conduction) evaluation in small fibre neuropathy is mandatory in order to exclude axonal degeneration and demyelinisation.
- QST is always indicated.
- Skin biopsy
Additional Psycho-cognitive Diagnostics
- RAND-36 (quality of life)
- VAS-Pain (maximal, minimal, actual, average/week)
- PCS (catastrophising)
- HADS (fear and depression)
Multidisciplinary Treatment
Whether or not somatic treatment is indicated is based on the pain diagnosis. Based on the findings of the pain questionnaires, additional diagnostics and/or multidisciplinary treatment consisting of various the non-somatic treatments may be necessary.
Non-somatic Treatment
- Psychological Treatment
- Depression Treatment
- Cognitive-Behavioural Treatment
- Rehabilitation Treatment
Somatic Treatment
Pharmacological treatment:
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Anticonvulsives: carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, gabapentine and pregabaline.
- Meticulous regulation of blood glucose levels
Interventional Pain Treatment
- Spinal cord stimulation (under research conditions)