A recent ANA bulletin indicated that 20% or more of patients reporting a neuropathy with no EMG deficit were found to test positive for Celiac. Celiac desease is a genetic variation that causes your immune system to react to a peptide in the breakdown of wheat gluten.
Other common symptoms of Celiac (in addition to neuropathy) are Anemia, thyroid problems, stomach problems, etc... Celiac is most commonly seen in the 5th decade - although is historical well know for failure to thrive in infants. It occurs in 1/250 in the genral population - but at probably a higher rate among northern europeans.
I have had BFS like symptoms, with parathesias, cramping, exercise intolerance, burning leg muscles, tingling and twitching feat and a variety of other issues which began after a Flu shot and a rapid onset of flulike symptoms.
Interesting I was also found to have an out-of-pattern male osteoperosis, mild iron deficient anemia, and elevated monocytes. I have been getting tested by a variety of doctors for several years - especial to find the cause of the anemia. A recent Doctor at UCI suggested testing for Celiac as it can present these symptoms. As celiac interferes with the absorption of various important minerals, it can cause problems with Calcium, Iron and others.
I am still waiting for the test results - but I am wondering if any of you have been suggested for this testing - you probably have a 1 in 5 chance of it with neuropathy and negative EMG.
There is a very good website -
http://www.celciac.com