Acute neuropathies are diagnostic emergencies

Neuropathy due to diabetes and alcohol misuse can be diagnosed in primary care, but acute neuropathies are diagnostic emergencies. In his clinical review Hughes (p 466) summarises that neurophysiological tests can distinguish axonal from demyelinating neuropathies and that demyelinating neuropathies are commonly inflammatory but treatable, whereas axonal neuropathies have multiple causes. Generic management includes foot care, ankle support, and management of neuropathic pain.

(Credit: ROSEMAN/CMSP/SPL)

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Relevant Article

Regular review: Peripheral neuropathy

Richard A C Hughes
BMJ 2002 324: 466-469. [Extract] [Full Text] [PDF]