Peripheral Neuropathies Flashcards
symmetric distal sensory loss with burning or weakness
polyneuropathy
Disease usually provoked by preceding infection, acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)
Sx include symmetric muscle weakness w/ absent or decreased DTRs, respiratory muscle weakness requiring ventilatory support, severe back pain, Dysautonia***
Guillain-Barre Syndrome
Tx for Guillain-Barre Syndrome
plasmapheresis or IV immune globulin
Diagnostic test of choice for Guillain-Barre and its results
Lumbar puncture- elevated protein w/normal WBC count
Glycolipid antibodies to gangliosides
Likely cause of Bell’s Palsy
Herpes simplex activation
Sx include: unilateral facial paralysis, Decreased tearing, Eyebrow sagging
Bell’s Palsy
TImeline of progression and resolution of Bell’s Palsy
Progressive w/ maximal paralysis within three wks of onset. Recovery of some degree by 6 months
Pharm tx for Bell’s palsy
short term glucocorticoid. if severe add valacyclovir
Autoimmune disorder characterized by weakness and fatiguability of skeletal muscle. Autoantibodies against acetylcholine receptors
Myasthenia Gravis
Key symptom of Myasthenia Gravis
Fluctuating skeletal muscle weakness
Sign seen in myasthenia gravis characterized by unilateral ptosis
Curtain Sign
Mainstay of tx for myasthenia gravis in symptomatic patients
Anticholinesterase agents-Pyridostgigmine (Mestinon)
Tx for a myasthenia crisis
Plasmapheresis, IV immunoglobulin, removal of thymus
Most common etiology of polyneuropathy
DM