Skin biopsy

Evidence-based neurology checklist on skin biopsy: Background Skin biopsy mainly assesses the intra-epithelial nerve fibers (IENF) It is more sensitive and flexible, and less invasive, than nerve biopsy It can also be performed using a skin blister Indications Intraepidermal nerve fibers (IENFs)…

Background

  • Skin biopsy mainly assesses the intra-epithelial nerve fibers (IENF)
  • It is more sensitive and flexible, and less invasive, than nerve biopsy
  • It can also be performed using a skin blister

Indications

Intraepidermal nerve fibers (IENFs)

Neurological causes of reduced IENFD

Non-neurological causes of reduced IENFD

Conditions with normal IENFD

Skin biopsy markers of uncertain significance

Causes of absent innervation of sweat glands

Miscellaneous findings on skin biopsy

References

  1. Lauria G, Faber CG, Cornblath DR. Skin biopsy and small fibre neuropathies: facts and thoughts 30 years later. JNNP 2022; 93:915-918. 
  2. Nolano M, Tozza S, Caporaso G, Provitera V. Contribution of skin biopsy in peripheral neuropathies. Brain Sci 2020; 10:989.
  3. Sommer C, Lauria G. Skin biopsy in the management of peripheral neuropathy. Lancet Neurol 2007; 6:632-642.
  4. Raicher I, Ravagnani LHC, Correa SG, Dobo C, Mangueira CLP, Macarenco RSES. Investigation of nerve fibers in the skin by biopsy: technical aspects, indications, and contribution to diagnosis of small-fiber neuropathy. Einstein (Sao Paulo) 2022; 20:eMD8044.
  5. Lauria G, Devigili G. Skin biopsy as a diagnostic tool in peripheral neuropathy. Nat Clin Pract Neurol 2007; 3:546-557. 
  6. And 1 more. Subscribe to see the full list

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