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Peripheral neuropathies during hypoxaemic chronic obstructive airways disease.
J Gasnault1, N Moore, F Arnaud
1Service de Neurologie, Centre Raymond Garcin, Hôpital Sainte-Anne, Paris, France.
Bulletin Europeen De Physiopathologie Respiratoire
|August 1, 1987
Summary
Chronic obstructive airways disease (COAD) frequently causes peripheral neuropathy, affecting nearly a third of patients. This axonal neuropathy is likely linked to hypoxia, smoking, and other factors.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pulmonology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Peripheral nervous system (PNS) alterations are increasingly recognized in patients with chronic obstructive airways disease (COAD).
- Respiratory insufficiency in COAD patients is associated with a higher prevalence of neurological complications than typically observed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the frequency and characteristics of peripheral nervous system alterations in patients with COAD.
- To identify potential etiopathogenic factors contributing to neuropathy in COAD.
Main Methods:
- Clinical assessment of peripheral neuropathy.
- Electrophysiological studies to evaluate nerve function.
- Analysis of potential contributing factors including hypoxia, smoking, alcoholism, malnutrition, and drug effects.
Main Results:
- Nearly one-third of COAD patients exhibit clinical signs of peripheral neuropathy.
- Two-thirds of COAD patients show electrophysiological abnormalities indicative of nerve damage.
- The neuropathy presents as a predominantly axonal type, often subclinical or with sensory deficits.
Conclusions:
- COAD is frequently associated with peripheral neuropathy, characterized by axonal damage.
- Chronic hypoxia is considered a primary factor, potentially exacerbated by tobacco smoke, alcohol, malnutrition, and certain medications.