Nervskadan

Nervskadan (Swedish for nerve damage) refers to impairment of the peripheral or autonomic nervous system resulting in altered sensation, motor weakness, or autonomic dysfunction. It can be caused by trauma, disease, toxins, or compression.

Common causes include physical injury, repetitive strain and compression neuropathies (such as carpal tunnel syndrome), metabolic disorders like diabetes mellitus leading to diabetic polyneuropathy, autoimmune inflammatory neuropathies (eg, CIDP), infections (Guillain-Barré syndrome), toxins (alcohol, chemotherapy), nutritional deficiencies (vitamin B12), ischemia, and genetic disorders.

Nerveskadan can be focal or diffuse, and primarily involves axonal degeneration or demyelination. Symptoms commonly include numbness or tingling, burning or electric pain, weakness or muscle wasting, reduced reflexes, and, in autonomic involvement, blood pressure changes, digestive or bladder symptoms.

Diagnosis relies on clinical assessment supported by tests such as nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG), which distinguish axonal from demyelinating processes. Imaging, blood tests, vitamin levels, and sometimes lumbar puncture or autonomic testing help identify underlying causes.

Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause, relieving symptoms, and preventing further damage. This may include physical and occupational therapy, pain management with medications such as anticonvulsants or antidepressants, lifestyle changes, and, when indicated, surgical relief of nerve compression. Prognosis varies with cause and extent.