Changes in short-latency somatosensory evoked potentials during hemodialysis in chronic renal failure

Short-latency SEPs were monitored in eight patients undergoing hemodialysis for end-stage renal disease. The peak latencies of EP,N13, and N20 were significantly delayed compared with those of the control group. Because the interpeak latency of N13 - N20 (central conduction time) was not significantly prolonged, there could be no possible subclinical involvement of the ascending sensory fibers in the brainstem. The dialysis did alter the peak latencies of EP,N20, and interpeak latencies of EP-N13 and EP-N20; these changes, however, were not highly significant. The evoked potential changes did not correlate with the routine biochemical data. Monitoring short-latency SEP may lead to early recognition of pathologic involvement of the peripheral nervous system.