[Electrophysiological study of latent neuropathies induced by perhexiline]

The aim of this study was to estimate the frequency of latent perhexiline-induced neuropathy in man. Several electrophysiological parameters were recorded and compared between a control group and a group of treated patients, without clinical evidence of neuropathy. The Hmax/Mmax amplitude ratio of the soleus H reflex was decreased in 2/3 of the patients. The H reflex latency was increased in 1/3 of them. The distal motor latencies of ulnar and popliteal nerves were increased in 1/4 of them. Only 1/3 of the patients treated did not show any electrophysiological abnormality. The validity of these results and the possible mechanisms involved are discussed.