POEMS syndrome: investigations

Nerve conductions studies (NCS): POEMS syndrome v CIDP

• POEMS syndrome often fulfils the criteria for CIDP
• There is more uniform slowing of conduction than in CIDP
• Conduction block (CB) and temporal dispersion are rare
• There are both axonal and demyelinating features
• There is greater axonal loss in the lower limbs
• There is a high terminal latency index

Nerve conductions studies (NCS): POEMS syndrome v MGUS

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in POEMS syndrome

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF): other causes of elevated levels

Endocrine tests

Skeletal survey

Histology

Blood tests

Imaging of chest and abdomen

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): features

Acronyms

Synonym

References

1. Joint Task Force of the EFNS and the PNS. European Federation of Neurological Societies/Peripheral Nerve Society Guideline on management of paraproteinaemic demyelinating neuropathies. Report of a joint task force of the European Federation of Neurological Societies and the Peripheral Nerve Society. J Peripher Nerve Syst 2006; 11:9-19.
2. So YT. Immune-mediated neuropathies. Continuum (Minneap Minn) 2012; 18:85-105.
3. Mauerman ML, Sorenson EJ, Dispenzieri A, et al. Uniform demyelination and more severe axonal loss distinguish POEMS syndrome from CIDP. JNNP 2012; 83:480-486.
4. Arimura K. Early recognition of POEMS syndrome: what is the role of neurophysiology? JNNP 2012; 83:474.
5. Lozeron P, Adams D. Monoclonal gammopathy and neuropathy. Curr Opinion Neurol 2007; 20:536-541.
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Related checklists

• POEMS syndrome: clinical features
• POEMS syndrome: treatment
• Castleman’s disease