Skin biopsy with investigation of small-diameter nerve fibers in human epidermis and dermis has been proven to be a useful method for confirming small-fiber neuropathy. In medical practice, small-fiber neuropathy is increasingly recognized as a leading cause of neuropathic pain. It is a prevalent complaint in medical offices, brought by patients often as a "painful burning sensation". The prevalence of neuropathic pain is high in small-fiber neuropathies of different etiologies, especially in the elderly; 7% of population in this age group present peripheral neuropathy. Pain and paresthesia are symptoms which might cause disability and impair quality of life of patients. The early detection of small-fiber neuropathy can contribute to reducing unhealthy lifestyles, associated to higher incidence of the disease.
CITATION STYLE
Raicher, I., Ravagnani, L. H. C., Correa, S. G., Dobo, C., Mangueira, C. L. P., & Macarenco, R. S. E. S. (2022). Investigation of nerve fibers in the skin by biopsy: technical aspects, indications, and contribution to diagnosis of small-fiber neuropathy. Einstein (Sao Paulo, Brazil), 20, eMD8044. https://doi.org/10.31744/einstein_journal/2022MD8044
Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.