same description as ellsac. I had mine in the end of November and they are healed but dark purple color.
It is very important that they take a spot from the upper leg as well. Mine indicated much more significant damage there.

That is a really good link. Thank you so much for finding and posting it here.

Hi Ellsac
Thanks for this - I too have primary Addison's, which is why I was asking. I had nerve conduction & EMG tests for PN in Aug 2014 - both negative. But since an emergency appendectomy in Oct 2014 (with large doses of IV hydrocortisone), my neuro symptoms have increased. Waiting to see a neurologist and from reading the PN forum was guessing that skin biopsy might be next step.

However from my own research I'm suspecting my PN might be due to B12 deficiency, (which could mean incomplete APS 4). Neuro wait is about 3 mths but seeing my Endo on Monday so will hopefully take another step forward.

My story is at: http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/thread218283.html

My B12 numbers were ok, but I started methyl b12 and methylfolate any way along with a couple of other supplements.

I have heard of larger doses of steroids causing a decrease in neuropathy symptoms-but not the other way around. I would think that is too much cortisol caused neuropathy-it would be a major symptom of Cushings Disease, and it doesn't seem to be (unless of course the excess cortisol is so prolonged in ones system that it causes diabetes or the like-although this would be reversible if the cortisol levels were brought back down).

That being said, blood sugar regulation and thyroid problems have been shown to lead to neuropathy, and there are many stories about women hitting menopause and getting neuropathy, so certainly hormones play a part, and us Addisonians have a harder time keeping our hormones balanced in general.

I hope your endo takes regular bloods? I get blood drawn every 4-6 months to check my ACTH level (to make sure I'm not over-replaced on cortisol), blood pressure, thyroid, liver, kidneys, blood sugar, electrolytes-whole shebang! haha.

When the small fiber neuropathy kicked in, I first thought maybe overrplacement causing high blood sugar, but not the case for me. If anything I run under replaced.

Sorry you have Addison's-but nice to meet another one :)

[QUOTE=ellsac;1135623]
I have heard of larger doses of steroids causing a decrease in neuropathy symptoms-but not the other way around. I would think that is too much cortisol caused neuropathy-it would be a major symptom of Cushings Disease, and it doesn't seem to be (unless of course the excess cortisol is so prolonged in ones system that it causes diabetes or the like-although this would be reversible if the cortisol levels were brought back down).

Sorry ellsac - I didn't word that very well - I don't think the extra steroid increased the PN - more I was concerned that it may have an effect on a skin biopsy result - although given the time lag now it should be okay. What I think may have contributed to the PN is a drop in B12 due to Nitrous Oxide during the op, (plus other factors). Also I was given Metrodiazanole (antibiotic) which PN is a known side effect of.

Yes my bloods are monitored every three months - glucose has always been good and thyroid has been stable since I added iodine to my diet. I normally see the Endo once a year but they scheduled a six monthly follow up due to the apx - but I've asked for it to be brought forward.

I'm fortunate in that although the Addison's numbers in NZ are small, and there is no official support group, we have a loose network in which we share information - the co-ordinator is a retired pharmacist who's had AD for 50 years - very helpful. It's a roller-coaster ride though and 5 years in I'm still learning.

[QUOTE=bluesfan;1135642]
You live in New Zealand? That's AWESOME!!

NZ is in my opinion one of the most magnificent countries in the world. Low crime, beautiful scenery, great standard of living and really good deer hunting in the mountains!

[QUOTE=UTGrad;1135647]Thanks UTGrad
I know I'm fortunate in a lot of respects to live here but the wait times to get specialist healthcare sometimes make me wish I was back in the US and the standard of living for those who are unable to work is no better than the US. I spent many years when I was younger traveling/working overseas but NZ has always been home.

Just got a message from my neuro office. They are still waiting to hear back from my insurance about coverage for a skin biopsy. Dang it's a long wait lol

Mine is scheduled for next week. It really will just tell you whether or not you have nerve damage. Still doesn't address the cause. It might not show any damage if you have early SFN.

Anyone know if its possible to have parasthesia, buzzing, etc without doing any actual nerve damage?

I'll let the experts chime in but I think you can.