Is electrodiagnosic testing for polyneuropathy overutilized?

Abstract

Distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSP) is one of the most common problems seen in clinical practice and one of the most frequent reasons for electrodiagnostic (EDx) testing. Most studies have supported the use of EDx testing for patients with suspected DSP. Some recent articles assert that EDx testing has a low yield in suspected DSP and is only needed for atypical presentations (a minority). However, many peer-reviewed articles indicate that EDx frequently changes diagnosis and management, and leads to a better understanding of the underlying pathology, severity, and prognosis. Overall, EDx is appropriate for most patients with new signs and symptoms of DSP. Muscle Nerve 55: 301-304, 2017.

Keywords: diagnosis; electrodiagnosis; neuromuscular disease; polyneuropathy; utilization.