nevritt

Nevritt, commonly translated as neuritis in English, refers to inflammation of a nerve or group of nerves. It is a descriptive term for nerve inflammation rather than a single disease, and it can affect sensory, motor, or autonomic fibers. In Swedish medical usage, nevritt is applied to various inflammatory conditions involving peripheral or central nerves, including localized nerve inflammation and inflammatory disorders of the optic nerve.

Causes and forms of nevritt are diverse. Infections such as varicella zoster, herpes simplex, Lyme disease, or other viral infections can trigger neuritis. Autoimmune and inflammatory processes, including Guillain-Barré syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, and other vasculitic or immune-mediated neuropathies, are common etiologies. Neuritis can also follow trauma, compression, or metabolic disturbances; certain vitamin deficiencies and toxins may contribute as well. An example often discussed in clinical practice is optic neuritis, an inflammation of the optic nerve frequently linked to multiple sclerosis.

Symptoms depend on the affected nerve(s) but commonly include sharp, burning, or throbbing pain that may be localized to a nerve distribution, along with sensory changes such as numbness or paresthesias, weakness, and sometimes loss of reflexes. Some forms, like optic neuritis, present with visual disturbances. The clinical presentation may be acute, subacute, or episodic, varying with the underlying cause.

Diagnosis relies on clinical assessment supported by tests. Neurological examination guides localization, while imaging (often MRI) helps identify inflammatory or demyelinating lesions. Nerve conduction studies and electromyography assess nerve function; lumbar puncture and blood tests may be used to detect infectious, autoimmune, or systemic causes.

Treatment targets the underlying cause and symptom relief. Treatments may include antiviral or antibiotic therapy for infectious etiologies, immunomodulatory or immunosuppressive therapy for autoimmune neuritis, and corticosteroids in certain conditions. Pain management with analgesics, anticonvulsants, or antidepressants is common. Prognosis varies widely depending on the cause and extent of nerve involvement.