Hi,

I am trying to understand as much as possible about my daughter who is severely affected by neuropathy.

Is there a clear difference between peripheral nerves and and anterior horn cells, if so what cells comprise the peripheral nerves.

When my daughter first became ill, she was diagnosed as suffering an unknown variant of spinal muscular atrophy. her nerve conduction velocity was considered normal and emg showed evidence of denervation. it was not till later on that further electrical studies found significant pathology of the peripheral nerves , which is why i ask these questions as the doctors seem rather unsure about what actually is happening to my daughter. to my knowledge they believe it to be neuropathy of unknown aetioloogy effecting anterior horn cells and peripheral nerves .

I would like to know peoples opinion on whether or not there can be damage to peripheral nerve and yet nerve conduction be normal. I have read a patient guideline from the national institute of health which mentions that the nerve conduction test measures the speed of the fastest functioning nerve, which makes me wonder if her peripheral nerves were affected from the beginning.

I am sorry about your daughter. I am a big confusion to my doctors too. I know with my first nc/emg it did not show and then the later one with the ssep did show PN. Does your daughter have other health conditions?For example auto immune? I am not sure the age of your daughter but I know me being younger that was something they looked at to see the why behind it. Where is her pain and condition? If I can help you can always PM me.

Try these two sites for info and maybe they will help
http://www.emc.maricopa.edu/faculty/...oBookNERV.html
This one is a bit technical, but invaluable for much:
http://neuromuscular.wustl.edu/
You don't have to memorize it all, just get a picture in your mind of the nerves themselves, how they connect and work w/each other.
By the way, most nerve conduction studies show deterioration of function as the illness [whatever it is] progresses.
From all you have written? Sure sounds like a solid second opinion is called for! Second opinions are cheap compared to other options and it's a good way to 'shop' for other doctors. IF your insurance or resources allow, of course.
Give your child an extra hug from me! 's - j