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Is there a new blood test to determine cause of neuropathy?
Someone just posted on Facebook that their neurologist had ordered "a new blood test from Mayo" that can determine what *caused* their peripheral neuropathy. There was no specific information provided. Does anyone know whether there is actually a new blood test from Mayo that can do this?
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Retired doc here. I trained at Mayo’s for my residency. Many tests can be ordered to point you in the right direction. Blood sugar, vitamin B12, immunoglobulins, anti-mag antibody, bone marrow, etc. These are some of the ones that come to mind. I was seen at Mayo’s in Rochester and was diagnosed with IgM/IgG MGUS with anti-mag neuropathy. No cure for the disease. They give Rituxan with some relief for a small percentage of patients. I’m hesitant to take it because there are side effects and it can open the door for you to get infections and a brain infection called PML (although a small percentage for this). Not worth the risk at the present time if I’m about the same and feeling good. Hope that helps.
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1 ReactionI would think the blood test ordered because you have neuropathy is to see if it caused by diabetes. Keeping diabetes under control is very important for EVERYTHING!!!!!
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1 ReactionHere’s an article that gives some examples of blood testing that could be done.
https://medisearch.io/share/qvCp4UpRgyVomYP7zvHWBZ
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1 ReactionNeuropathy is about nerves that have lost some of their insulation. Alcohol reduces B12 absorbtion. Take lots of B12. Protein is the food source. Many seniors eat little animal protein. Best supplement is METHYLCOBALAMIN. Look up effect of alcohol on B12 absorbtion.