Can too low-fat diet cause PN?

[Chuck]

I am 50 years old.

After extensive bloodwork, 2 EMG's, and an MRI I was diagnosed with Ideopathic Small Fiber Sensory Polyneuropathy.  The EMG's were negative for nerve damage.  The blood test & MRI were also negative for causes of neuropathy.

I've been eating a low-fat diet about 10 years, altho' I have no medical condition that would prescribe it.  After doing some figuring I was surprised to find out just how low - about 8% of my daily calories come from fat.  Over these 10 years I've weight-trained with dumbbells for 2 hrs 3 times a week, and walked briskly for about 50 mins 5 days a week.

Thus my question:  Can a diet this low in fat coupled with such an exercise regimen be a causative factor in PN?  My symptoms started about 3 years ago in early 1997.

Thank you.

[CCF Neuro[P] MD, RPS]

Dear Jack:

From what you have indicated your symptoms to be, they are too non-specific to give you an accurate diagnosis over the internet.  See you neurologist.

CCF Neuro MD

[Jack]

I have severe pain from my right buttock down to my foot.
I also suffer from lower back pain.
I am seeking treatment information.  

[CCF Neuro[P] MD, RPS]

Dear Chuck:

Sorry to hear about your small fiber disorder.  It would be highly unlikely that an extremely low fat diet would cause your disorder.  Most small fibers are not well myelinated.  Although membranes need lipids to make new membranes, your body will make what it needs as long as you provide it with the essential fatty acids that your body cannot manufacture.  Eight percent fat in your diet should also be enough to absorb the fat soluable vitamins A,E,D,K.  The Ornish diet for cardiovascular disease is <10% fat intake.  I am not sure what caused your small fiber disease, but it was not the low fat intake.  

Sincerely,

CCF Neuro MD