Diagnosing CMT

[Lickylicky]

Is a needle biopsy an accurate way of testing for sure that you either do have CMT or you don't ? I understand that the genetic test points to the specific type CMT you might have but do people have it done just for the reason of being diagnosed because it's more accurate than the needle biopsy or is the needle biopsy alone sufficient to know for sure that you have CMT?

[Lickylicky]

Thank you for taking the time to answer my question I really appreciate that. I wasn't expecting a physician to necessarily answer my question but I really really really want to say thank you I have spent a long time dealing with the symptoms of what I am told is Charcot Marie Tooth but the genetic testing is quite expensive and that's even if insurance will pay for it.If the nerve biopsy is another option I will probably go with that after discussing it with my neurologist of course. Thank you again for a straightforward answer and then some! This helps me move forward more than you know

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi!
Well CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is diagnosed through detailed medical history, symptom list, family history, genetic testing, nerve conduction studies and EMGs and through nerve biopsy. Of these, nerve biopsy is the most confirmatory and may even help in diagnosis of cases tested negative on genetics study.  
However, please discuss with your doctor. Take care!

The medical advice given should not be considered a substitute for medical care provided by a doctor who can examine you. The advice may not be completely correct for you as the doctor cannot examine you and does not know your complete medical history. Hence this reply to your post should only be considered as a guiding line and you must consult your doctor at the earliest for your medical problem.