Intermediate
Technical
IVT
neuropathy
Disease or dysfunction of peripheral nerves causing weakness, numbness, or pain.
Full Definition
Neuropathy encompasses a range of conditions affecting peripheral nerves, resulting in motor weakness, sensory loss, or autonomic dysfunction. In neuromuscular documentation, neuropathies are classified by distribution (focal, multifocal, or generalized), pathology (axonal or demyelinating), and etiology (diabetic, toxic, hereditary). Accurate classification guides both treatment and prognosis.
Usage
Usage note: Often qualified by distribution or cause (e.g., distal neuropathy, diabetic neuropathy).
In Context
- "Diabetic neuropathy was evident from distal sensory loss and absent reflexes." — Clinical examination
- "Nerve conduction studies confirmed axonal neuropathy affecting motor fibers." — Diagnostic report
Also known as
peripheral neuropathy
nerve disease
Contrasted with
myopathy
Don't confuse with
myopathy
neuritis