Quantitative Sensory Testing

This policy addresses Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST) — including current perception threshold, pressure‑specified sensory testing, vibration perception and thermal threshold testing — as an objective assessment of sensory thresholds for patients with suspected neuropathic pain or small‑fiber neuropathy (e.g., diabetic neuropathy) and as an adjunct when EMG/nerve conduction studies are normal or non‑diagnostic. However, QST is considered experimental/investigational and is not covered due to limited and variable evidence, lack of a universally accepted reference standard, reproducibility concerns, and the need for patient cooperation and standardized, trained administration; it should not be used alone to make diagnostic or management decisions and EMG/NCS remain the standard for large‑fiber evaluation.

"Objective assessment of sensory thresholds in patients with suspected neuropathic pain or small fiber neuropathy to inform management decisions."