My introduction

[Guest guest]

Hi.

My name is Peggy. I was diagnosed with an idiopathic peripheral

neuropathy 18 years ago. I have only had about 4-5 " episodes "

during that time, with varying degrees of weakness in my legs and

arms. I have had success with short courses of prednisone. My nerve

conduction rates are very slow, according to my doctors.

After my neurologist retired, I began to see his partner. I had

one of my episodes just a few weeks ago. Numbness on my scalp and

forehead, with some numbness below my knees to ankle. However, no

trouble walking, driving, etc. The interesting thing is that my new

neurologist is convinced I have hereditary CMT. He also talked to

me about Charcot Marie Tooth disease. Although he wants me to get

the DNA test, I am reluctant at this point since it is so expensive

and insurance doesn't cover it. The odd thing is that no one that I

know of has CMT, although my mother and I both have hammer toes,

which the doctor found significant. He also seemed interested that

she has suffered from scoliosis, and has one hip higher than the

other.

We have a 20 year old son who has exhibited no symptoms. What is

everyone's feeling about DNA testing to get a definitive diagnosis?

As I see it, even if I did get the test, there is very little that

can be done about it, so why do I need the test?

I don't know if this is what I was supposed to write about in my

introduction. But... here it is.

Sincerely,

Peggy