Consensus criteria for the diagnosis of multifocal motor neuropathy

Abstract

At this time, there are no widely accepted criteria for the diagnosis of multifocal motor neuropathy. Furthermore, there is insufficient empirical data to define clinical and laboratory features that may reliably separate certain lower motor neuron syndromes with overlapping features as distinct. The AAEM therefore developed five criteria through a formal consensus process that are described in this document to act as a guide for diagnosing multifocal motor neuropathy with a high level of confidence (definite multifocal motor neuropathy) or with a moderate level of confidence (probable motor neuropathy). In brief, the diagnosis requires clinical weakness without objective sensory loss or upper motor neuron signs in the distribution of two or more named nerves that is due to conduction block in two or more motor nerves outside of common entrapment sites. Furthermore, normal results are required for sensory nerve conduction studies.