The degeneration of small nerve fibers reduces sweat gland innervation and alters sudomotor function . Sudoscan measures the concentration of chloride ions produced by sweat gland activity. A low-voltage current (<4V) is applied to the hands and feet through stainless steel sensor electrodes. The applied tension extracts chloride ions from the sweat glands which are densely concentrated on the palms and soles. Since the stratum corneum acts as an isolator, the ions can only pass via the sweat ducts. This ensures that the findings correspond solely to sweat gland function. The chloride ions create a detectable electrochemical reaction with the sensor plates which is measured.

What is measured

SUDOSCAN records the Electrochemical Skin Conductances (ESC) of the hands and feet generated from the current associated with the applied voltage. Loss of sweat glands or loss of their innervations results in reduced ESC [16].

Figure 10: ESC measurement of a subject with normal (left) and abnormal (right) sweat function.

Subject with abnormal sweat function

Fast testing

SUDOSCAN provides an accurate evaluation of sudomotor function by measuring the ability of sweat glands to release chloride ions in response to an electrochemical activation on the palm of the hands and soles of the feet, areas with the highest sweat gland density .

Clear results

1 Simple Ergonomic touch screen operation and detailed graphics allow for visual representation of the results. An immediate quality check ensures reliable results. Results are easy to interpret : Green suggests no neuropathy, Yellow a moderate neuropathy and Orange a more severe neuropathy.

2 Quantitative Actual numerical values of the Electrochemical Skin Conductance (ESC) on the hands and feet are displayed. The level of ESC indicates the severity of the neuropathy. This measure can be compared with later test results to assess the patient’s response to treatment or other prescribed interventions.

3 Symmetry Measure of symmetry between right and left sides help identify the type of peripheral neuropathy.