Imaging for inflammatory neuropathies

Abstract

Inflammatory neuropathies comprise a heterogeneous group of conditions united by inflammation-mediated damage to peripheral nerves and their vasa nervorum. Although classification, diagnosis and management are largely based on clinical features, electrodiagnostic and laboratory examinations, imaging studies play an important supporting role. Ultrasound and MRI are the two modalities used for imaging peripheral nerves. The two techniques differ in the clinical context of application, the information provided and the diagnostic performance. This narrative review aims to provide guidance on when and how to use ultrasound or MRI in patients with inflammatory neuropathies, highlighting their respective strengths and pitfalls, and how to combine these imaging modalities to enhance their usefulness in the diagnostic-therapeutic management of these far from rare conditions.

Keywords: Autoimmune neuropathy; Diabetic neuropathy; High resolution ultrasound; Magnetic resonance neurography; Muscle atrophy.