Research Programs

Neuromuscular Disorders


Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) are performed by members of the Neuromuscular Division at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP), as well as Pennsylvania Hospital (PAH) and the VAMC. At HUP, over 2500 patients undergo studies each year. Over the past decade, we have doubled in size – 4 EMG faculty to 8 faculty (6 adult and 2 pediatric).  The lab has achieved the highest level of accreditation “with exemplary status” by the AANEM. In addition to highly specialized studies, like single-fiber EMG and focused autonomic testing, we have added capacity for small-fiber neuropathy evaluations with QST (quantitative sensory testing) and skin biopsy (for epidermal nerve fiber density measurement).

In addition, Penn has several signature programs.  The Penn Comprehensive Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Center at Pennsylvania Hospital, which is the largest in the region, specializes in multidisciplinary, comprehensive care of ALS patients, including the opportunity to participate in advanced clinical trials for the diagnosis and treatment of ALS.

The Charcot-Marie-Tooth Center of Excellence is located at HUP, and is the largest center on the east coast specializing in this common cause of neuropathy. More clinical information can be found at the Inherited Neuropathy Consortium.

The Muscular Dystrophy Association Clinic at HUP provides advanced care for people who have inherited diseases of nerve and muscle as well as myasthenia gravis and Lambert-Eaton syndrome. The teams at HUP and CHOP work together to provide lifespan care for patients with these disorders. Our Center participates in clinical trials of muscle diseases.

The Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)/Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) Center of Excellence at HUP has experts who can diagnose and treat these disorders, including both inpatient and outpatient units.

Centers and Programs

  • Penn Comprehensive Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Center
  • Penn Charcot-Marie-Tooth Center of Excellence
  • Penn Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Clinic
  • Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)/Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) Center of Excellence

Labs