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A-waves increase the risk of developing neuropathy
Iva Srotova1, Eva Vlckova1, Ladislav Dusek2
1Department of Neurology Masaryk University and University Hospital Brno Brno Czech Republic.
Brain and Behavior
|August 23, 2017
Summary
A-waves, a finding in motor nerve conduction studies (NCS), may indicate a future risk of developing nerve abnormalities. This study found A-waves can predict future neuropathy or radiculopathy in patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurophysiology
- Clinical Electrophysiology
- Neurology
Background:
- A-waves are late responses observed in motor nerve conduction studies (NCS).
- Their significance in healthy individuals is unclear, despite frequent occurrence.
- A-waves are often associated with neurogenic disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if A-waves predict future nerve conduction study (NCS) or needle electromyography (EMG) abnormalities.
- To determine the risk associated with A-wave occurrence for developing neuropathy or radiculopathy.
Main Methods:
- Evaluated NCS/EMG findings in 327 individuals with repeated examinations.
- Assessed the relationship between initial A-wave presence and subsequent abnormalities.
- Included individuals with normal initial findings, with or without A-waves as the sole abnormality.
Main Results:
- The odds ratio for A-waves predicting future abnormalities varied by nerve.
- Significant predictive power was observed for tibial (OR=2.7), peroneal (OR=3.9), and ulnar nerves (OR=30.0).
- A-waves demonstrated predictive value for developing neuropathy or radiculopathy.
Conclusions:
- A-waves can be considered an initial abnormality in all nerves studied.
- The presence of A-waves may predict the future development of broader NCS/EMG abnormalities.
- A-waves are a potential early indicator of underlying nerve issues.
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