Using CHEPS to Assess Small Fibre Neuropathy
Author Information
Author(s): Duncan D. Atherton, Paul Facer, Katherine M. Roberts, Peter V. Misra, Boris A. Chizh, Chas Bountra, Praveen Anand
Primary Institution: Hammersmith Hospital and Imperial College London
Hypothesis
Can the Contact Heat Evoked Potential Stimulator (CHEPS) effectively assess small fibre neuropathy in patients?
Conclusion
CHEPS is a sensitive and practical tool for assessing small fibre neuropathy, even in patients without significant IEF loss or QST abnormalities.
Supporting Evidence
- CHEPS showed reduced Aδ amplitudes in patients compared to controls.
- Patients had lower skin flare responses that correlated with Aδ amplitudes.
- Intra-epidermal nerve fibre counts were significantly reduced in patients.
Takeaway
The CHEPS device helps doctors check for nerve problems in patients' skin by using heat, which can show if the nerves are working properly.
Methodology
The study involved 41 patients with sensory neuropathy and 9 healthy controls, using CHEPS, skin flare responses, and skin biopsies to assess nerve function.
Limitations
The study's sample size was relatively small, and further evaluation is needed to confirm the findings.
Participant Demographics
41 patients (mean age 55, 25 female) and 9 healthy controls (mean age 43.6).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.0032
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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