Founded in 1993 by Justin McArthur, M.B.B.S., M.P.H. and the late Jack Griffin, Johns Hopkins Cutaneous Nerve Laboratory was established to develop a better and simpler method of identifying small nerve fibers in the skin that are frequently affected in some types of peripheral neuropathies.
The Cutaneous Nerve Laboratory was the first Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) certified laboratory to use epidermal nerve fiber analysis as a diagnostic tool, and ever since has been at the forefront of assessing the diagnostic and prognostic value of skin biopsies in neurological disease.
Our Services
We offer cutaneous nerve biopsies to all physicians, with diagnostic services to identify and monitor small fiber neuropathies through minimally invasive 3mm skin punch specimens, which we analyze for epidermal nerve fiber density and morphological changes. Our services include:
- Biopsy kits with tools and return shipping
- Assessment of intraepidermal nerve fiber density
- Evaluation of sweat gland innervation
- Staining to screen for the presence of amyloid
- Pathological review of all specimens by neuromuscular trained specialists
Flexibility and Convenience for Patients and Physicians
Patients and physicians can choose to perform the biopsy in their office or at Johns Hopkins. For more information or to schedule a skin punch biopsy at Johns Hopkins, please call
410-502-7930.
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At Johns Hopkins
Patients can have the biopsy performed at the Johns Hopkins Outpatient Center or the Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center. View biopsy information for patients.
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Outside of Johns Hopkins
Physicians can perform the biopsy at their offices and mail the tissue sample to our laboratory using our biopsy kit. Learn about the process.
What a Skin/Nerve Biopsy Can Tell Us
Looking under the microscope at a small sample of skin taken from an arm or leg can show the number of sensory nerves present — the nerves that enable the feeling of touch, heat and cold, and pain. The test can also reveal the shape and general health of these nerves, including:
- Show abnormal epidermal nerve fiber innervation
- Detect the severity of neuropathy at sites not easily tested through electrophysiology
- Reveal abnormal nerve fiber morphology associated with development of neuropathy
- Provide a pathological alternative in settings where electrophysiology is not available
- Distinguish neuropathy from other causes of pain
- Diagnose presence of amyloid
Cutaneous Nerve Lab Physicians
Cutaneous Nerve Lab Staff
Dan Tsottles
Research Specialist
Keya Meyers
Research Specialist
Kelly Wagner
Laboratory Manager
Other CAP Approved Lab Technologists
