Mononeuritis multiplex

Alternative names:

mononeuropathy multiplex; multifocal neuropathy

Definition:

A disorder involving simultaneous or sequential damage to more than one nerve group.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Mononeuritis multiplex (mononeuropathy multiplex) is a form of peripheral neuropathy (damage to nerves other than the nerves of the brain and spinal cord). It involves isolated damage to at least 2 separate nerve areas. Mononeuritis multiplex is a group of symptoms, not a distinct disease entity. The underlying disorder involves isolated nerves in multiple, random areas. As the disorder worsens, the damage appears less multifocal and more symmetric, resembling polyneuropathy.

The damage to the nerves involves destruction of the axon (part of the nerve cell) which interferes with nerve conduction at the location of the damage. Common causes include a lack of oxygen from decreased blood flow or inflammation of blood vessels. About one-third of cases are without identifiable cause.

Multiple specific disorders are associated with mononeuritis multiplex, including (but not limited to) blood vessel diseases such as polyarteritis nodosa and connective tissue diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus. Connective tissue disease is the most common cause in children.

Less common causes include Sjogren's syndrome, Wegener's granulomatosis, hypersensitivity (allergic) reactions that cause inflammation of blood vessels, leprosy, sarcoidosis, amyloidosis, multifocal forms of diabetic neuropathy, and various disorders of the blood (such as hypereosinophilia, and cryoglobulinemia).