From the Research
A skin biopsy would typically show no specific findings in functional neurological disorder (FND) or stress-related conditions, as these conditions are not associated with structural skin changes that would be detectable on histopathological examination. In FND, symptoms arise from altered brain function rather than structural damage, while stress-related skin manifestations like hives or eczema would show characteristic inflammatory patterns if biopsied during an active flare 1. However, if the skin appears normal clinically when the biopsy is taken, the results would likely be unremarkable. This "clean" biopsy with no findings might actually support a diagnosis of FND or stress-related condition when combined with other clinical features, as it helps rule out organic skin diseases.
Some studies have investigated the role of fungal infections in skin conditions, but these are not directly relevant to FND or stress-related conditions 2, 3, 4, 5. The key point is that FND and stress-related conditions do not involve structural changes in the skin that would be detectable on biopsy.
It's essential to consider the clinical context and other diagnostic features when interpreting skin biopsy results, as the absence of physical findings does not invalidate the patient's symptoms 1. The use of routine fungal staining, such as periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) stain, can help identify fungal infections in skin biopsies, but this is not relevant to the diagnosis of FND or stress-related conditions.
In summary, a skin biopsy with no findings can support a diagnosis of FND or stress-related condition, as it helps rule out organic skin diseases and confirms the absence of structural skin changes associated with these conditions.