The value of fibre density determinations in early detection and follow-up study of neurogenic disorders

The value of fibre density determinations in early detection and follow-up study of neurogenic disorders

D. Kountouris, S. Skondras, and M.E. Doughly

(Knappschafts-Krankenhaus Bochum-Langendreer, University Clinic, Bochum, Federal Republic of Germany).

Conventional electromyography (EMG) patterns were recorded and fibre density (FD) values, obtained by means of single fibre electromyography (SFEMG), were determined and compared with each other in 79 patients with alcoholic peripheral neuropathy. 39 with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, 27 with anterior horn cell disease, 35 with radiculopathy, 18 with entrapment syndrome, and nine with genetically determined neuropathy.

Sixty-eight of the patients were examined at least three times with both methods so that observation of their course was possible.

The results demonstrated that the fibre density determination is a far more sensitive method for the early detection of alcoholic neuropathy, radiculopathy, and sometimes entrapment syndromes than conventional EMG. Furthermore, the fibre density determination was found to be a method superior to conventional EMG in the follow-up examination in all neurogenic disorders except for diabetic neuropathy.

Abstract published in the abstract book of 31^st AAEE Annual Meeting, International SEP Symposium, of the American Association of Elecrtomyography and Elecrtodiagnosis.

Paper presented at the 7^th Annual CME Congress, 31^st AAEE Annual Meeting, International SEP Symposium, Kansas City, Missouri, US. September 19-23, 1984.