Mononeuritis multiplex
Definition
Mononeuritis multiplex is a neurological disorder that involves damage to at least two separate nerve areas.
Alternative Names
Mononeuropathy multiplex; Multifocal neuropathyCauses
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)
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by
URAC, also known as the American
Accreditation HealthCare Commission. URAC's accreditation program is
the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and
accountability, verified by independent audit.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.