Originally Posted by bluesfan

Hi Kazzak

I have an auto-immune condition so I did ask specific questions about that being the cause (answer: possibly) but as I had other problems at the same time (medication toxicity & recent appendectomy) and also have osteoarthritis they couldn't give me a definite cause.

They didn't label it idiopathic but only because I got in first and said I wouldn't accept that label. My nerve conduction studies were negative and they didn't suggest any further testing: eg skin biopsy for Small Fiber Neuropathy (public health system = don't spend money unless you have to)

The only good thing to come out of the appt. was that at least it's now on my medical records and if I have to go back into hospital I can insist that they don't give me any medications that are likely to aggravate the PN.

I don't know who your insurer is but I searched "skin biopsy testing for small fiber neuropathy testing in NZ" and came up with the policy requirements for Aetna Health:

http://www.aetna.com/cpb/medical/data/700_799/0774.html

You may be able to get that done here if you meet your insurer's criteria.

Here's a very good article on the use of testing to help with diagnosis of SFN - it may be useful to help your insurer understand the need for the test.

http://practicalneurology.com/2009/10/PN1009_06.php

Just out of curiosity did you have any first-time vaccines within 6 mths prior to developing the PN?