What Is Diabetic Neuropathy?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
6. Imaging and Biopsy
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scan can be useful to help rule out other issues such as a tumor. When the neuropathy affects nerves in the spinal canal or cranial nerves, CT myelography and brain imaging using MRI can be used to exclude lesions in the spinal canal and brain.
Doppler imaging can be useful in the assessment of skin perfusion. A screening electrocardiography is also recommended for patients who have had diabetes for a long time as it can help detect abnormal innervation in the heart. A nerve biopsy can help to diagnose the severity of the neuropathy. However, it is invasive and can cause numbness, pain, and cold insensitivity. A biopsy is rarely recommended for patients.
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