Peripheral neuropathies Flashcards
In terms of sensory fibres, what signals do Aalpha and Abeta nerve fibres transmit?
Aa transmits signals regarding proprioception (where our body is in space) and Ab transmits signals regarding light touch, pressure and vibration
What signals fo Adelta and C fibres transmit?
- Ad = transmit pain and cold
- AC = pain and warmth.
What happens to conduction velocities in demyelinating neuropathies?
Slower conduction
Common mononeuropathies?
- Carpal tunnel syndrome - median nerve compression
- Ulnar neuropathy - entrapment at the cubital tunnel
- Peroneal neuropathy - entrapment at fibular head
- Cranial mononeuropathy - III or VII cranial nerve palsy
If a patients balance deteriorates with their eyes closed, it shows sensory to what part of the brain is defected?
Cerebellum
What motor symptoms can you see in peripheral neuropathies?
- Muscle cramps
- Weakness
- Fasciculations
- Atrophy of muscles
- High arched feet (pes cavus)
What pattern of peripheral neuropathy is the most common:
asymmetrical sensory
asymmetrical sensiromotor
symmetrical sensorimotor
symmetrical sensorimotor - legs or toes burning or tingling = commonest type of neuropathy
What conditions are associated with asymmetrical sensory peripheral neuropathy?
coeliac
Sjogrens
paraneoplastic disease
Diagnosing peripheral neuropathies?
Use history and clinical exam as hallmarks are sensory impairment and diminished or absent reflexes.
What systemic condition is most strongly associated with axonal peripheral neuropathy?
Diabetes
Name an acute polyneuropathy which leads to rapid ascending paralysis and sensory deficits where an infection might precede the disease
Gullian barre syndrome
How do we treat guillian barre syndrome?
needs immediate treatment such. as IVIG - plasma exchange and admission to ITU for monitoring of respiratory function
What treatment can we give for pain, cramps and balance problems in polyneuropathies?
Pain: amiitryptilline, gabapentin, pregabalin
Cramps: quinine
Balance: physio or walking aids
