Monofilament Sensory Testing

Graded nylon monofilaments are applied to defined sites on the hands, feet and lesional skin to establish cutaneous sensory thresholds. The method is used to detect and monitor nerve function impairment rather than for aetiological diagnosis.

Technology

Clinical & Functional · Nerve function assessment

What it measures

Cutaneous sensory threshold

Developer

Semmes–Weinstein monofilaments from several manufacturers, and in-house sets

Specimen

None (clinical/imaging)

Development status

FDA/CE/WHO endorsed

Regulatory status

CE marked

Intended use

Detection and serial monitoring of nerve function impairment for disability prevention

Main limitation

Does not identify the cause, and results overlap with diabetic and other common neuropathies.

Linked publications

77

TPP-1, confirming leprosy

61.0 of 100, partial alignment

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