Franka Kunik receives the renowned lecture award for pain research in Würzburg

Franka Kunik receives the renowned lecture award for pain research in Würzburg

Research on small fiber neuropathy (SFN) has made significant progress: Doctoral student Franka Kunik from the University Hospital of Würzburg was awarded the “Top Young Science” lecture award today at the German Pain Congress in Mannheim. Your team, led by Prof. Dr. Nurcan Üçeyler, studied 42 patients over a period of four years who suffer from this painful disease, which affects fine nerve fibers and is often accompanied by burning pain and abnormal sensations such as tingling in the hands and feet. The prize of 400 euros recognizes the significant results of her work, which are based on a mixture of surveys, neurological examinations and various measurement methods, including corneal confocal microscopy and the skin sampling procedure to examine skin innervation.

The results of the study are revealing: Despite long-term observation, there was no significant worsening of nerve damage. However, almost half of the participants reported increased or expanding pain. A common side effect was an increase in discomfort. It was also shown that the findings of the small nerve fibers remained stable overall, which indicates an interesting stability of the disease. Only a slight deterioration in the perception of heat and cold could be detected.

The influence of prediabetes

Particularly noteworthy is the influence of prediabetes on the course of SFN. While patients with idiopathic SFN showed more stable nerve function, those with prediabetes faced deterioration and reported increased painful attacks. This suggests that lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise could be crucial to halting the progression to diabetes and mitigating neuropathy. Franka Kunik emphasized that she plans further investigations into this connection, which will take place as part of a DFG-funded project that focuses on the mechanisms of nociceptor sensitization in SFN.

Innovative methods for investigation

Various innovative and noninvasive methods are used for the precise diagnosis of SFN. These include the Laser Doppler Imager Flare method, which measures the axon reflex-related flare response, and quantitative sensory testing (QST), which examines temperature and pain thresholds. The latter takes around 30 minutes and offers valuable information about nerve function. However, the methods are also limiting in their application in terms of both availability and the necessary cooperation from patients.

Additionally, corneal confocal microscopy is used to evaluate adjustments in corneal nerve parameters. Despite advances, there is still much work to be done to improve the causes and treatment options for SFN. The use of further quantitative tests such as the thermoregulatory sweat test (TST) and skin tissue biopsy shows that research is on an exciting but challenging path.

The use of the various examination methods, such as those described for the diagnosis of small fiber neuropathy, is essential in order to be able to offer patients the best possible treatment. The results of Franka Kunik and her team shed light on the complex course of this disease and the potential opportunities that can be opened up through targeted research. It remains exciting to see what developments will emerge in the future.

For more information on the details of the study you can mainfranken.news and Visit PMC.