PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY SUMMARY

By Gia K. Sharma

Instructor Dr. Andre Cervantes

CASHU, Belize

30th July 2013

Summary

Peripheral neuropathy can be into divided into acute and chronic forms, symmetrical polyneuropathy, and multiple mononeuropathy

Acute neuropathies are diagnostic emergencies

Neuropathy due to diabetes mellitus and alcohol misuse can be diagnosed in primary care

Neurophysiological tests distinguish axonal from demyelinating neuropathies

Demyelinating neuropathies are commonly inflammatory and treatable

Axonal neuropathies have multiple causes

Generic management includes foot care, ankle supports, and treatment of neuropathic pain.

Mononeuropathy refers to focal involvement of a single nerve, usually due to a local cause such as trauma, compression, or entrapment. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common example of a mononeuropathy.

Mononeuropathy multiplex refers to simultaneous or sequential involvement of noncontiguous nerve trunks. Used loosely, this term can refer to multiple compressive mononeuropathies

It identifies multiple nerve infarcts due to a systemic vasculitic process that affects the vasa nervorum.

Diseases of the central nervous system such as a brain tumor, stroke, or spinal cord lesion occasionally present with

symptoms that are difficult to distinguish from polyneuropathy.

Loss of the protective sensation-the reduced ability to feel pain-in the feet may lead to the formation of calluses and blisters, bone and joint problems, infection, and foot ulcers

Reduced feeling in the feet can also alter a person's step, leading to bone or joint problems

If untreated, foot problems can become so severe that the foot or lower leg may have to be amputated

Kidney problems. These can lead to toxic substances in the blood that damage nerves.

Vitamin deficiencies and alcoholism. Not getting enough nutrients, such as vitamin B-12, can damage nerves. Overuse of

alcohol and not eating a healthy diet can lead to these vitamin deficiencies.

Infectious or inflammatory diseases, such as HIV or Guillain-Barr syndrome. These diseases can damage the central and peripheral nerves.

Exposure to toxic substances, such as arsenic, or by certain medicines such as those used for chemotherapy.