Bakkers et al examined a total of 265 patients diagnosed with small fiber neuropathy (SFN). They found that SFN was associated with a severe impairment in Quality of Life, with pain and autonomic symptoms explaining only a small portion of the findings.

Saperstein et al (2013) retrospectively reviewed the records of 145 patients with sensory symptoms or findings, and normal nerve conduction studies seen in a subspecialty neuromuscular private practice. They found that the skin biopsy was abnormal in at least one site in 59% of patients. Those with confirmed SFN were significantly more likely to have pain and were more than twice as likely to respond to standard neuropathic medications.

Boruchow et al (2013) examined the role of skin biopsy in the evaluation and management of patients with suspected SFN. Of 69 patients who underwent skin biopsy, 25 had pathological evidence of SFN, and 9 had borderline changes. A change in management of diagnosis occurred in 14 of 25 patients with definite SFN, 6 of 9 patients with borderline SFN, and 16 of 35 biopsy negative patients. They conclude that skin biopsy played a valuable role in the workup of these patients.