The Wide Spectrum of Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Paraproteinemic Neuropathy.

Monoclonal gammopathy is encountered quite frequently in the general population. This type of hematological abnormality may be mild, referred to as 'monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance' (MGUS) or related to different types of hematological malignancies. The association of a peripheral neuropathy with monoclonal gammopathy is also fairly common, and hemopathy may be discovered in an investigation of peripheral neuropathy. In such a situation, it is essential to determine the exact nature of the hematological process in order not to miss a malignant disease and thus initiate the appropriate treatment (in conjunction with hematologists and oncologists). In this respect, nerve biopsy (discussed on a case-by-case basis) is of great value in the management of such patients. We therefore propose to present the objectives and main interests of nerve biopsy in this situation.