Neuropathy- Definition, Clinical features

 Neuropathy

Definition

• Neuropathy can be defined as any disease of nerves and can include peripheral nerves, cranial nerves, and autonomic nerves.

• The most common disease process seen with neuropathy is diabetes.

Diabetic neuropathy is a generic term or any diabetes mellitus related disorder of the peripheral no or autonomic nervous system for the cranial nerves.

Fig. 1: Diabetic neuropathy

Clinical presentation

• The ulcer is usually located on the weight-bearing surface of the foot

• Sensory neuropathy, if present;

• Patient unable to sense pain and pressure

• Risk of skin breakdown without patient awareness

• Mechanical repetitive stresses are the most common positive factor of wounds

• Motor neuropathy, if present:

• Loss of intrinsic muscle

• hammertoe, claw toe deformity is adding to the risk of breakdown and rubbing long shoes

• Foot drop

• Autonomic neuropathy, if present:

• Decreased or absent sweat and oil production lead to dry, inelastic skin

• Increased susceptibility to skin breakdown and injury

• Callus formation

• Dysvascular symptoms, if present:

• Usually arterial disorder

• Ischemia

• Impaired healing time

• Imperial transport of oxygen, antibiotics, and nutrition needed for healing.