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Peripheral neuropathy

A differential diagnosis can help guide optimal therapies

Peripheral neuropathies are diseases or conditions that affect the peripheral nerves, causing numbness, pain, weakness, and cramping. They may be caused by gene mutations, toxin or drug exposure, physical trauma, or inflammation.

The successful identification of immune-mediated syndromes can have a significant impact on a patient’s functionality and quality of life.

Because serum autoantibodies are markers for a variety of immune-mediated disorders, they can be valuable in aiding diagnosis and helping physicians treat disorders with optimal, appropriate therapies. Our tests can aid in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with peripheral neuropathy after common causes have been ruled out.

Autoimmune nodopathy is a form of immune-mediated peripheral neuropathy, and it can often present features that overlap with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP). Quest offers the Autoimmune Nodopathy (CIDP-like) Evaluation to help neurologists uncover the right treatment path without trial and error, leading to more precise, cost-effective care. 

Clinical red flags

If a patient presents with CIDP-like symptoms but has a rapid onset, prominent tremor, severe ataxia, or IVIg resistance, consider autoimmune nodopathy. Ordering the Quest Autoimmune Nodopathy Panel can confirm the diagnosis and, most importantly, predict a poor response to IVIg, saving valuable time and resources. 

Streamlined ordering with definitive results

Neurologists can order this specialized panel through their existing workflow to identify anti-NF155, anti-NF186, and anti-CNTN1/CASPR1 complex antibodies referenced in the 2021 EAN/PNS guidelines, supporting a definitive autoimmune nodopathy diagnosis. An accurate diagnosis can help physicians move beyond IVIg and consider targeted B-cell–depleting therapies, such as rituximab, when appropriate.

Testing patients who present with peripheral neuropathies can help

  • Pursue a definitive diagnosis
  • Identify treatment options
  • Offer appropriate treatment and avoid contraindicated medications

Why order peripheral neuropathy testing from Quest?

We offer both genetic and autoimmune peripheral neuropathy testing

Our tests, along with clinical, electrophysiological, and immunological data, can help qualify immune motor neuropathies and other lower motor neuron disorders

Testing that can help distinguish treatable neuropathies

Test name
SensoriMotor Neuropathy Profile with Recombx® -Complete (GALOP, ™ Co-GM1, Co-GD1b, Co-Asialo-GM1, MAG, SGPG, GD1a, Sulfatide, Recombx® Hu)
Sensory Neuropathy Complete Antibody Panel (Hu, GD1b, GQ1b, MAG, SGPG, MPO, PR3, SS-A, SS-B)
Autoimmune Nodopathy (CIDP-like) Evaluation
Test codes may vary by location. Please contact your local laboratory for more information. 

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