Neuropatiat

Neuropatiat, or neuropathies, refer to a group of disorders caused by damage to the peripheral nervous system. Peripheral nerves connect the brain and spinal cord to muscles, skin, and internal organs, and damage can affect sensory, motor, and autonomic functions. Neuropathies can be acute or chronic and may involve one nerve (mononeuropathy), several nerves in a pattern (multifocal), or a symmetric distribution affecting many nerves (polyneuropathy).

Classification of neuropatiat typically considers the affected nerve fibers (sensory, motor, autonomic), the distribution of symptoms (distal symmetric, focal, or multifocal), and the underlying cause (diabetic, inflammatory, hereditary, toxic, infectious, nutritional, metabolic, traumatic). Common forms include distal sensorimotor polyneuropathy, inflammatory neuropathies such as Guillain-Barré syndrome, hereditary neuropathies like Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease, and chemotherapy-induced neuropathy.

Symptoms vary with the type and distribution but often include numbness, tingling or burning pain, and reduced sensitivity to touch or temperature in the feet or hands. Motor involvement can cause weakness and gait difficulties, while autonomic involvement may lead to dizziness, digestive problems, or abnormal heart rate and blood pressure.

Diagnosis combines clinical examination with targeted tests. Nerve conduction studies and electromyography assess nerve function, while laboratory tests look for diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune markers, infections, or toxins. Genetic testing may be indicated for hereditary neuropathies. Imaging is used selectively to exclude other conditions.

Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause, relieving symptoms (often with medications such as anticonvulsants or antidepressants for neuropathic pain), and maintaining function through physical therapy, occupational therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Prognosis depends on the specific type and cause; some neuropathies improve or stabilize with treatment, while others are chronic.