Mononeuritis multiplex
Overview
Mononeuritis multiplex is a neurological disorder that involves damage to at least two separate nerve areas.
Symptoms
* Numbness and tingling * Abnormal sensation * Burning pain * Lack of or decreased sensation in any part of the body * Difficulty moving a part of the body (paralysis) * Lack of control of movement of a part of the body * Inability to move a part of the body
Causes
Mononeuritis multiplex is a form of peripheral neuropathy (damage to nerves outside the brain and spinal cord). Mononeuritis multiplex is a group of symptoms, not a disease. The damage to the nerves involves destruction of the axon (part of the nerve cell), which interferes with nerve signaling The underlying cause of the mononeuritis multiplex affects nerves in multiple, random areas. As the disorder worsens, the damage may become more widespread. Common causes include a lack of oxygen caused by decreased blood flow or inflammation of blood vessels. No cause is identified for about a third of cases. Common causes of mononeuritis multiplex: * Diabetes mellitus * Blood vessel diseases such as polyarteritis nodosa * Connective tissue diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus Connective tissue disease is the most common cause of mononeuritis multiplex in children. Less common causes include: * Sjogren syndrome * Wegener's granulomatosis * Leprosy * Sarcoidosis * Amyloidosis * Forms of diabetic neuropathy * Disorders of the blood (such as hypereosinophilia and cryoglobulinemia)
Prevention
Prevention techniques vary depending on the specific disorder. Proper diet and use of medication for diabetes may help prevent neuropathy from developing.
Treatment
The goals of treatment include treatment of the cause if possible, supportive care to maximize independence and control of symptoms. This may include control of blood sugar levels for diabetics, nutritional supplementation, or medical treatments of conditions as appropriate. To maximize self-care and independence, physical therapy, vocational therapy, occupational therapy and orthopedic interventions may be recommended. For example, exercises and retraining may increase muscle strength and control. Appliances such as wheelchairs, braces, and splints may enhance mobility. Safety is an important consideration for people with sensation or movement difficulties. Lack of muscle control may increase the risk of falls or other injury. Decreased sensation can also increase the risk of falls. It may also increase the risk of injury because the person is unable to perceive a potential source of harm.