Sural Nerve Biopsy

Excerpt

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition present in a wide range of etiologies. Of these etiologies, diabetes remains the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy, with about 50% of diabetic patients experiencing some form of peripheral neuropathy. However, many patients also experience peripheral neuropathy secondary to other etiologies, making the diagnoses and treatment of these conditions difficult. Although other forms of non-invasive testing are available, once these have been exhausted the sural nerve biopsy becomes a valuable option for potential diagnosis and treatment. This activity discusses the anatomy, indications, procedural technique, complications, and follow up needed for a sural nerve biopsy.