Hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type 2
Overview
Hereditary sensory neuropathy type II (HSN2) is a rare genetic disorder that usually begins in childhood by affecting the nerves that serve the lower arms and hands and the lower legs and feet (the peripheral nerves). Symptoms start with inflamed fingers or toes especially around the nails. Infection is common and worsens as ulcers (open sores) form on the fingers and on the soles of the feet. The loss of sensation in both hands and feet often leads to neglect of the wounds. This can become serious, even leading to amputation in extreme cases, so it is important to care for any such wounds.
Symptoms
Type 2, congenital sensory neuropathy (also historically known as Morvan's disease[4]), is characterized by onset of symptoms in early infancy or childhood. Upper & lower extremities are affected with chronic ulcerations and multiple injuries to fingers and feet. Pain sensation is affected predominantly and deep tendon reflexes are reduced. Autoamputation of the distal phalanges is common and so is neuropathic joint degeneration. The NCV shows reduced or absent sensory nerve action potentials and nerve biopsy shows total loss of myelinated fibers and reduced numbers of unmyelinated fibers. It is inherited as an autosomal recessive condition.