Metabolic neuropathies

Definition

Metabolic neuropathies are nerve disorders that occur with diseases that disrupt the chemical processes in the body.

Alternative Names

Neuropathy - metabolic

Causes

Nerve damage can be caused by many different things. Metabolic neuropathy may be caused by:

Diabetes is one of the most common causes of metabolic neuropathies. People who are at the highest risk for nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy) from diabetes include those who have:

Other common causes of metabolic neuropathies include:

Some metabolic disorders are passed down through families (inherited), while others develop due to various diseases.

Symptoms

These symptoms occur because nerves cannot send proper signals to and from your brain:

These symptoms often start in the toes and feet and move up the legs, eventually affecting the hands and arms.

Exams and Tests

Your health care provider will examine you and ask about your symptoms.

Tests that may be ordered include:

Treatment

For most metabolic neuropathies, the best treatment is to correct the metabolic problem.

Vitamin deficiencies are treated with diet or with vitamins by mouth or by injection. Abnormal blood sugar level or thyroid function may need medicines to correct the problem. For alcoholic neuropathy, the best treatment is to stop drinking alcohol.

In some cases, pain is treated with medicines that reduce abnormal pain signals from the nerves. In some cases, lotions, creams, or medicated patches can provide relief.

Weakness is often treated with physical therapy. You may need to learn how to use a cane or walker if your balance is affected. You may need special ankle braces to help you walk better.

Support Groups

These groups can provide more information on neuropathy:

Outlook (Prognosis)

The outlook mainly depends on the cause of the disorder. In some cases, the problem can easily be treated. In other cases, the metabolic problem cannot be controlled, and nerves may continue to become damaged.

Possible Complications

Complications that may result include:

Prevention

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk for neuropathy.

If you have neuropathy in your feet, a foot doctor (podiatrist) can teach you how to inspect your feet for signs of injury and infection. Proper fitting shoes can lessen the chance of skin breakdown in sensitive areas of the feet.

References

Goodman BP. Neurologic manifestations of nutritional disorders. In: Aminoff MJ, Josephson SA, eds. Aminoff's Neurology and General Medicine. 6th ed. Cambridge, MA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 15.

Katirji B. Disorders of peripheral nerves. In: Jankovic J, Mazziotta JC, Pomeroy SL, Newman NJ, eds. Bradley and Daroff's Neurology in Clinical Practice. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 106.

Ralph JW, Aminoff MJ. Neuromuscular complications of general medical disorders. In: Aminoff MJ, Josephson SA, eds. Aminoff's Neurology and General Medicine. 6th ed. Cambridge, MA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 60.

Smith AG, Shy ME. Peripheral neuropathies. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 388.



Review Date: 12/31/2023
Reviewed By: Joseph V. Campellone, MD, Department of Neurology, Cooper Medical School at Rowan University, Camden, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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