Autoimmune peripheral neuropathy

Autoimmune peripheral neuropathy is a type of neuropathy that occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including muscle weakness, numbness, and pain in the affected areas.

Causes

Autoimmune peripheral neuropathy can be caused by a variety of autoimmune diseases, including Guillain-Barré syndrome, Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), and Lupus. In some cases, the neuropathy may be the first sign of these underlying conditions.

Symptoms

The symptoms of autoimmune peripheral neuropathy can vary widely depending on the specific nerves affected. Common symptoms include:

• Muscle weakness
• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
• Pain in the affected areas
• Difficulty walking or moving the affected limbs
• Loss of coordination or balance

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of autoimmune peripheral neuropathy typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. These may include blood tests to check for signs of inflammation or autoimmunity, nerve conduction studies to assess the function of the peripheral nerves, and lumbar puncture to examine the cerebrospinal fluid.

Treatment

Treatment for autoimmune peripheral neuropathy typically involves managing the underlying autoimmune condition. This may include immunosuppressive therapy, plasma exchange, or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy. In some cases, physical therapy or occupational therapy may also be recommended to help manage symptoms and improve function.

See also

• Peripheral neuropathy
• Autoimmune diseases
• Guillain-Barré syndrome
• Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
• Lupus