We support clinicians in the diagnosis of neuromuscular disorders through specialized analysis of muscle biopsies (and, when indicated, nerve biopsies). Using histoenzymology and complementary techniques — and, in selected cases, electron microscopy — we help identify and differentiate muscle diseases such as inflammatory myopathies, neurogenic abnormalities, dystrophies and (mitochondrial) metabolic disorders. All analyses are initiated upon receipt of a fully completed request form that includes the relevant clinical context and the patient’s informed consent. This ensures that interpretation is optimally aligned with the neurologist or rheumatologist's question.
We also provide diagnostic support in cases of suspected malignant hyperthermia (MH). When MH is considered in the differential diagnosis, or when there is known or suspected susceptibility, an in vitro contracture test (IVCT) can be performed on a muscle biopsy. This functional test involves exposure to anesthetic triggers and supports clinical risk assessment in the context of anesthesia. Website Malignant Hyperthermia lab.
In certain cases, the diagnostic work-up requires specialized investigations that we do not perform in-house. Therefore, we collegially refer to UZ Ghent for respiratory chain enzyme analysis on muscle tissue , and to UZ Brussels (CMG) for mitochondrial genetic testing on muscle tissue.