Following on to my query re a new assessment I've come up with the following tests that I think might be appropriate to ask the doctor to order.

I really think my husbands PN is autoimmune related based on the fatigue, rashes and joint pain as well as the usual small/large fibre and motor/sensory issues he has:

Vitamin B12 and folate levels
Thyroid function
Vasculitis evaluation
Antibodies to nerve components (e.g., anti-MAG antibody)
Rheumatoid factor "RF"
Anti-cyclic citrullined peptide "CCP"
C-reactive protein "CRP"
ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) Test

The first two are usually good, and he is being treated for an under active thyroid anyway, but the others haven't been done in years, some if ever.

Any other suggestions, or comments?

Linda

Has he had an EMG nerve conduction test? Sometimes this is the only negative result needed to indicate and even diagnose an inflammatory neuropathy especially when diagnosis was missed many years ago.

There is good information at this website (copy and paste into your browser):

Home - GBS/CIDP Foundation International

Hi Lindyloo

From reading your previous thread I understand you're still searching for the cause of your husband's PN, (which was originally labeled idiopathic), after a long period since the original diagnosis.

You mention above that he is already being treated for Hypothyroidism - Peripheral Neuropathy can be secondary to Hypothyroidism. It is not uncommon that even though a primary condition may be being well managed the secondary PN may not resolve. Is your husband's hypothyroidism the autoimmune type? (ie: Hashimoto's Thyroiditis)

Trying to find an alternative possible cause in the presence of an already existing disease becomes very difficult, as it might be impossible to eliminate it as the cause.

Here's a link to a report on several case studies: (it's an old report but it has some specific details on neuropathy with hypothyroidism)

http://jnnp.bmj.com/content/50/11/1454.full.pdf

Regarding the tests you are considering requesting; I know that testing in the US is expensive so maybe try to narrow the list down to those most likely first. Also you might want to discuss it with your PCP who could guide you knowing your husband's history.

This link might help you to sort out which tests may be relevant.

Laboratory Diagnosis of Peripheral Neuropathy

All the best for finding answers. Let us know how you get on.

Hi bluesfan,

Thanks for your post and especially for the Quest link info.

Thank you very much for the link to the testing.

The thyroid issue came up about 7 years after he was diagnosed with the PN, so not a cause. I wish it was that easy!!

We live in Canada so no payment required for the "standard" tests. His GP is very good so I think he would help us narrow it down.

Someone else on the list has referred us to a local neurologist that they feel is good so I'm going to pursue that too.

Thanks again, Linda