The Article in Brief

Accuracy of Monofilament Testing to Diagnose Peripheral Neuropathy: A Systematic Review

Jacquelien Dros , and colleagues

Background This systematic review evaluates monofilament testing for diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy of the feet, a condition that causes numbness or a complete loss of sensation.

What This Study Found Despite frequent recommendations for use of the test, researchers conclude that existing data are limited in their ability to draw conclusions about its accuracy because of a lack of diagnostic studies with adequate methods.

Implications

• The authors recommend against the sole use of microfilament testing to diagnose peripheral neuropathy.