Comprehensive Neurological Care from Early Nerve Assessment to Critical Care

Neurological disorders can range from slowly progressive peripheral nerve problems to life-threatening emergencies such as stroke, brain haemorrhage, severe head injury and prolonged seizures. Apollo Adlux Hospital, Kochi, offers advanced neurological support through facilities such as SUDOSCAN for the assessment of sudomotor and small nerve-fibre function and a dedicated 10-bed Neuro Intensive Care Unit for critically ill neurological and neurosurgical patients. Together, these facilities support both early neurological evaluation and intensive management of complex brain, spine and nerve disorders.

What Is SUDOSCAN?

SUDOSCAN is a non-invasive test that evaluates the function of sweat glands and the small nerve fibres controlling them. The test focuses on small peripheral nerve fibres associated with sweat gland activity. Patients place their bare hands and feet on electrode plates, and the assessment can generally be completed within a few minutes. The device measures electrochemical skin conductance, which provides information about sudomotor function.

Why Are Sweat Glands Used to Assess Nerve Function?

Sweat glands are controlled by small autonomic nerve fibres. These fibres can be affected in conditions such as diabetes and peripheral neuropathy. When the nerves supplying the sweat glands do not function properly, sweat gland activity may decrease or become abnormal. SUDOSCAN measures this function indirectly and provides numerical results that can assist the clinician in assessing possible small-fibre or autonomic nerve dysfunction.

What Happens During a SUDOSCAN Test?

The test is simple and generally requires no needles or extensive preparation. During the assessment:

1.         The patient removes shoes and socks.
2.          The hands and feet are placed on stainless-steel electrode plates.
3.          A low-voltage stimulus is applied.
4.          The device measures the response from sweat glands.
5.          The results are generated within a few minutes.

The test is generally painless and non-invasive.

Who May Benefit from SUDOSCAN Testing?

A neurologist, diabetologist or physician may recommend the test for patients with:

•            Diabetes
•            Burning sensation in the feet
•            Tingling or numbness
•            Reduced sensation
•            Unexplained sweating abnormalities
•            Suspected small-fibre neuropathy
•            Symptoms of autonomic dysfunction
•            Peripheral neuropathy risk factors
•            Certain metabolic or neurological conditions

SUDOSCAN has been studied as a simple clinical tool for identifying sudomotor dysfunction and possible diabetic neuropathy.

Can SUDOSCAN Diagnose Neuropathy on Its Own?

SUDOSCAN should not be considered a standalone diagnosis for every type of neuropathy. Results are interpreted along with:

•            Medical history
•            Neurological examination
•            Blood tests
•            Nerve conduction studies
•            Electromyography
•            Autonomic function tests
•            Clinical symptoms
•            Other relevant investigations

A normal result does not exclude every neurological condition, and an abnormal result requires clinical interpretation.