Nerve conductions studies in experimental models of autoimmune neuritis: A meta-analysis and guideline

Nerve conduction studies (NCS) are essential to assess peripheral nerve fiber function in research models of immune-mediated neuritis. However, the current lack of standard protocols and reference values impedes data comparability across models and studies. We performed a systematic review and subsequent meta-analysis of the last 30 years of NCS of immune-mediated neuritis in Lewis-rats. Twenty-six papers met the inclusion criteria for meta-analysis. Extracted data showed considerable heterogeneity of recorded nerve conduction velocity (NCV) and compound muscle action potential (CMAP). Studies also significantly differed in terms of technical, methodical, and data reporting issues. The heterogeneity of the underlying studies emphasizes the need for standardization when conducting and reporting NCS in rats. We provide normative values for NCS of the sciatic nerve of Lewis rats and propose seven items that should be addressed when NCS are performed when studying immune paradigms in Lewis rats.