[Uremic neuropathy is more frequent in male patients]

The aim of this study was to analyse the relationship between clinical and electrophysiological features of somatic and autonomic neuropathy and gender of 51 patients on chronic hemodialysis. Apart from basic neurological examination, conduction velocities in peripheral nerves were determined, and the function of the autonomic nervous system was assessed with the help of two tests: R-R interval variation (RRIV) and sympathetic skin response (SSR). The incidence and intensity of clinical and electrophysiological signs of sensomotor neuropathy were statistically significantly more prevalent among male patients, whereas the symptoms suggesting autonomic involvement were more frequent in women. Results of parasympathetic electrophysiological tests were similar in both groups, but abnormal SSR results prevailed in male patients.