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Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry logoLink to Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry
. 1998 Oct;65(4):535–540. doi: 10.1136/jnnp.65.4.535

The diagnostic sensitivity of different F wave parameters

F Weber 1
PMCID: PMC2170313  PMID: 9771780

Abstract

OBJECTIVE—To examine the relative diagnostic sensitivity of various F wave parameters.
METHODS—Normal values for minimum, mean, and maximum F wave latency, chronodispersion, and persistence in the four major motor nerves were established and systematically applied to at least four separate categories of patients (radiculopathies, polyneuropathies, mononeuropathies, and others). F Waves were studied both isolated and in comparison with other motor nerve conduction parameters.
RESULTS—F Chronodispersion was the most often abnormal parameter, particularly in lumbosacral radiculopathies. Minimum F wave latency was more useful in polyneuropathies. Compared with minimum F wave latency, F chronodispersion was able to identify most additional cases.
CONCLUSIONS—F Wave studies should include minimum F wave latency and chronodispersion.



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Selected References

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