The Burden of Small Fiber Neuropathy: Changes in Pain, Costs, and Quality of Life Before and After Diagnosis
Dennis Kool, Margot Geerts, Lloyd Brandts, Merel Kimman, Caroline M. L. Gorissen‐Brouwers, Catharina G. Faber, Ingemar S. J. Merkies, Janneke G. J. HoeijmakersABSTRACT
Background and Aims
Small fiber neuropathy (
Methods
Patients referred to the tertiary SFN expertise center in the Netherlands completed questionnaires before diagnosis (at placement on the waiting list, approximately 7 months before consultation) and at 3 and/or 6 months after confirmation. Healthcare utilization, patient and family costs, and productivity losses were assessed using the iMTA Medical Consumption and Productivity Cost Questionnaires. QoL was measured with the EQ‐5D‐5L and pain intensity with a numeric rating scale. Missing data were handled using multiple imputation, and changes over time were analyzed using within‐subject comparisons and generalized linear mixed models.
Results
Eighty‐four patients completed both pre‐ and postdiagnosis questionnaires. After follow‐up, total healthcare costs, patient and family costs, productivity losses, pain intensity, and QoL remained unchanged. However, diagnostic confirmation of SFN was associated with fewer medical specialist visits, lower related costs, and improved health perception.
Interpretation
These findings suggest that diagnostic clarification alone is insufficient to reduce the overall burden of SFN, highlighting the need for more effective symptom management and supportive care strategies.