Undiagnosed Small-Fiber Polyneuropathy - Is it a Component of Gulf-War Illness
Abstract
The term small-fiber polyneuropathy (SFPN) refers to body-wide dysfunction/degeneration of small-diameter axons that transmit pain and control the body s autonomic functions. The vague, widespread symptoms of SFPN overlap with those of Gulf War Illness (GWI). We propose that there may be a SFPN component to GWI. To diagnose SFPN in Gulf War-ill veterans, we have been testing normal control subjects and patients with definite SFPN to compare the sensitivity and specificity of the best known tests. We are also testing Gulf War veterans with and without GWI to identify how often this neurological illness is masquerading as GWI, and we are applying the same tests to subjects diagnosed with fibromyalgia (FM). By doing so, we are establishing a relationship between GWI and SFPN, and between SFPN and FM. We are also characterizing our subjects' health with a series of validated questionnaires. Thus far we have found markers of SFPN in both Gulf War veterans and FM patients in approximately the same ratio. This report summarizes progress against Specific Aims I and II of this study.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA589549
Entities
People
- Anne L. Oaklander
- Max M. Klein
Organizations
- Massachusetts General Hospital