Mononeuritis multiplex

Alternative names:

mononeuropathy multiplex; multifocal neuropathy

Symptoms:

• numbness
• tingling
• abnormal sensation
• burning pain
• lack or decreased sensation
• 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

Note: Specific symptoms vary with the individual nerve involved.

Signs and tests:

A detailed history may be required to determine the possible cause of the disorder. Examination and neuromuscular testing may show a specific loss of sensation and movement associated with dysfunction of specific nerves. Reflexes may be abnormal. Diagnosis of mononeuritis multiplex usually involves deficits of two or more isolated, unrelated nerve areas. Common findings may include:

• sciatic nerve dysfunction
• common peroneal nerve dysfunction
• radial nerve dysfunction
• ulnar nerve dysfunction
• femoral nerve dysfunction
• distal median nerve dysfunction
• axillary nerve dysfunction
• signs of autonomic neuropathy (damage to a part of the nervous system which controls involuntary bodily functions such as the glands and heart)

Tests of nerve conduction velocity usually indicate axonal degeneration. An EMG (test of electrical activity in muscles) may be abnormal. A nerve biopsy may be appropriate for some cases.

Various laboratory tests and procedures may be useful in determining the cause of the condition. Tests are guided by the suspected cause as suggested by the history, symptoms, and pattern of symptom development.