Face validity of VPT index as measure of pacinian corpuscle density

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Hi All

I wanted to test face validity of the following idea; see if anyone else thinking similarly.

vibration perception threshold (VPT) is well established measure used as a clinical and research tool as a measure of health of the peripheral nervous system.

normative data is established which shows normal distribution of perception threshold of log Voltage needed to cause calibrated excursion of an actuator at various anatomic sites. There is also age correlated reduction in perception.

there may be variance within normal population and between sub populations of density of pacinian corpuscles (PCs)at certain sites which may explain painful symptoms; for example biopsy of Morton neuroma tissue reports proliferation of PCs.

there is to my knowledge no tested way to infer PC density.

I think that if, within a normal population, there is a normally distributed VPT index that this may be correlated to PC density; here why.

PCs are likely numerically denser on the plantar than the dorsal surface of the foot.

if this is true then a ratio of dorsal to plantar VTP (VPT index) may be relatively constant

the ratio will likely be fairly independent of state of PNS ie age related or causes other than those at most distal part of nervous system such as PC density.

anyone aware if this idea has been tested or can comment on a logical flaw(s)?

Cheers

Martin

Foot and Ankle Clinic
1365 Grant Ave.
Winnipeg Manitoba R3M 1Z8
phone [204] 837 FOOT (3668)
fax [204] 774 9918
www.winnipegfootclinic.com