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Taubman-funded study finds inefficiencies in neuropathy diagnoses

Ann Arbor, Mich. -- A study funded by the Taubman Institute and the Rayner Program for a Cure has found that the most efficient diagnostic tools are not always used.

Instead, neuropathy patients are more likely to receive high-cost, low-yield screending, according to a study led by Dr. Brian Callaghan, assistant professor of neurology at the University of Michigan Medical School. Callaghan also is the  associate director of the ALS clinic headed by Taubman Institute Director Dr. Eva Feldman. Feldman also participated in the neuropathy study, along with several colleagues.

For patients with peripheral neuropathy, the nerves that carry information to and from the brain don't work properly.  This commonly leads to tingling or burning in arms or legs, and loss of feelings.  Symptoms can go from subtle to severe.

Patients diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy typically are given many tests, but physicians are highly variable in their approach.

"We spend a lot of money to work up a diagnosis of neuropathy," said Callaghan.  "The question is whether that money is well-spent." 

The full study results are reported in the Archives of Internal Medicine. 

Read the complete U-M press release here.