Current View of Diagnosing Small Fiber Neuropathy

Small fiber neuropathy (SFN) is a disorder of the small myelinated Ad-fibers and unmyelinated C-fibers [5, 6]. SFN might affect small sensory fibers, autonomic fibers or both, resulting in sensory changes, autonomic dysfunction or combined symptoms [7]. As a consequence, the symptoms are potentially numerous and have a large impact on quality of life [8]. Since diagnostic methods for SFN are numerous and its pathophysiology complex, this extensive review focusses on categorizing all aspects of SFN as disease and its diagnosis. In this review, sensitivity in combination with specificity of different diagnostic methods are described using the areas under the curve. In the end, a diagnostic work-flow is suggested based on different phenotypes of SFN.

Automated summary

SFN is a disorder that affects small fibers, potentially leading to a variety of symptoms with a significant impact on quality of life. A diagnostic work-flow based on different phenotypes of SFN is suggested, taking into account the sensitivity and specificity of different diagnostic methods.