PERIPHERAL NERVE FUNCTION IN PERNICIOUS ANEMIA BEFORE AND AFTER TREATMENT

The peripheral nerve function was studied by electroneurographical examination of the median nerve in 34 patients with pernicious anemia and 117 controls. In the controls, a negative correlation was found between the amplitude of the nerve action potential and age. Thus the normal ageing of a peripheral nerve can be demonstrated by electroneurography. Electroneurographical signs of neuropathy of the median nerve were present in 33% of the patients with pernicious anemia. Only 7% of them had subjective symptoms. There was a correlation between an abnormal electroneurogram and the occurrence of neurological symptoms. Neuropathy seems to be the rule rather than the exception in pernicious anemia, and an early sign rather than a late complication. No definite improvement was found after vitamin B12 therapy. © 1969 S. Karger AG, Basel.