Peripheral neuropathy (nerve dysfunction)

General or Other | - Others | Peripheral neuropathy (nerve dysfunction) (Disease)


Description

Peripheral neuropathy is the dysfunction of one or more peripheral nerves (the part of a spinal nerve distal to the root and plexus). It includes numerous syndromes characterized by varying degrees of sensory disturbances, pain, muscle weakness and atrophy, diminished deep tendon reflexes, and vasomotor symptoms, alone or in any combination. Initial classification is based on history and physical examination.

Causes and Risk factors

It is not always easy to pinpoint the cause of peripheral neuropathy, because a number of factors can cause neuropathies. These factors include: alcoholism, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, exposure to poisons, infections, trauma or pressure on the nerve, tumors, vitamin deficiencies.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Electromyography and nerve conduction velocity studies help localize the lesion and determine whether the pathophysiology is primarily axonal (often metabolic) or demyelinating (often autoimmune). Treatment is aimed mainly at the cause. ...