neuropátiás

Neuropatías, or neuropathies, are diseases of the peripheral nervous system resulting from damage to peripheral nerves. They can affect sensory, motor, or autonomic fibers and may present with pain, numbness, weakness, or autonomic symptoms.

They are categorized as mononeuropathies (involving a single nerve) or polyneuropathies (affecting many nerves, often in a symmetric, distal pattern). Pathology can be axonal, demyelinating, or mixed.

Common causes include diabetes mellitus, chronic alcohol use, nutritional deficiencies (notably B12), autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, infections, toxins, inherited neuropathies such as Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease, trauma, and paraneoplastic syndromes. In many cases no cause is found.

Clinical presentation depends on the type and distribution. Distal symmetric polyneuropathy typically causes numbness and tingling in the feet and hands with later weakness; focal neuropathies cause localized weakness or sensory loss. Autonomic involvement can affect GI, cardiovascular, or urinary function.

Diagnosis combines clinical assessment with studies such as nerve conduction and electromyography. Laboratory tests search for underlying causes (glucose status, B12, thyroid function, autoimmune markers). Imaging is used to exclude compressive lesions; genetic testing may identify inherited forms.

Management targets the underlying cause when possible and alleviates symptoms. Glycemic control, avoidance of neurotoxins, and nutritional correction are key. Neuropathic pain is treated with antidepressants, anticonvulsants, topical agents, and physical therapy; multidisciplinary care improves outcomes.

Epidemiology: neuropathies are common, especially in older adults and people with diabetes. Prevalence varies by definition, but distal polyneuropathy is a frequent neurological condition worldwide.