Exploration of Neurofilament Light Chain and Nerve Ultrasound in Leprotic Neuropathy

OBJECTIVESTo explore neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels in leprotic neuropathy compared to controls, and to determine if the changes correlate with ultrasonographic nerve findings.METHODSIndividuals with leprosy with signs or symptoms suggestive of peripheral nerve involvement were recruited. They were evaluated by clinical examination, functional scores, laboratory assessments (including NfL), nerve conduction studies (NCS), and ultrasound. Ultrasound was conducted in bilateral median, ulnar, tibial, fibular, sural, and vagus nerves as well as cervical roots 5 and 6. Results were compared to age, sex, and body mass index matched healthy controls.RESULTSA total of 320 nerves from 20 patients and 480 nerves from 30 controls were evaluated. NfL was significantly elevated in those with leprosy with a mean and standard deviation of 7.50 + 2.83 compared with 3.42 + 1.18 in controls (P