Peripheral sensory function in non-freezing cold injury patients and matched controls

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Dermatology
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Non-freezing cold injury (NFCI) can lead to chronic sensory deficits.
• Understanding the long-term impact of NFCI on peripheral nerve function is crucial for diagnosis and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare peripheral sensory neural function in individuals with chronic NFCI in their feet against matched control groups.
• To investigate potential alterations in quantitative sensory testing (QST) measures and intraepidermal nerve fibre density (IENFD) in NFCI.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative sensory testing (QST) was performed on the feet of 13 individuals with chronic NFCI and matched controls (COLD and CON groups).
• Intraepidermal nerve fibre density (IENFD) was assessed in a subset of participants.

Main Results:

• Individuals with NFCI showed significantly higher warm detection thresholds and mechanical detection thresholds compared to control groups.
• A significant reduction in intraepidermal nerve fibre density (IENFD) was observed in the NFCI group compared to the COLD group.
• Interindividual variations were noted, precluding the establishment of a diagnostic cut-off for NFCI.

Conclusions:

• Chronic non-freezing cold injury (NFCI) is associated with impaired peripheral sensory function, characterized by hyposensitivity to thermal and mechanical stimuli.
• Reduced intraepidermal nerve fibre density suggests nerve damage as a potential cause of sensory impairment in NFCI.
• Longitudinal studies are needed to track the progression and resolution of sensory neuropathy in NFCI.