Peripheral nervous system diseases

Peripheral Nervous System Diseases are a group of disorders that specifically affect the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS). The PNS is a part of the overall nervous system that includes all the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord.

Overview

Peripheral Nervous System Diseases can affect one nerve (mononeuropathy), two or more nerves in different areas (multiple mononeuropathy) or many nerves (polyneuropathy). These diseases can result from a variety of factors including genetic disorders, infections, autoimmune diseases, and diabetes.

Types of Peripheral Nervous System Diseases

Mononeuropathy

Mononeuropathy is a type of Peripheral Nervous System Disease that results from damage to a single nerve. The most common types of mononeuropathy are carpal tunnel syndrome and Bell's palsy.

Multiple Mononeuropathy

Multiple Mononeuropathy is a condition that involves the simultaneous malfunction of two or more unrelated nerves. The most common cause of multiple mononeuropathy is a type of inflammatory disease known as vasculitis.

Polyneuropathy

Polyneuropathy is a condition that involves damage to many nerves throughout the body. The most common cause of polyneuropathy is diabetes, but it can also be caused by other conditions such as alcoholism and kidney disease.

Treatment

Treatment for Peripheral Nervous System Diseases depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, treating the underlying condition can resolve the nerve disorder. In other cases, treatment may involve medications, physical therapy, or surgery.

See Also

• Nervous System
• Central Nervous System
• Neuropathy
• Neurology