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Peripheral neuropathy in the elderly: a clinical and electrophysiologic study
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
|February 1, 1981
Summary
Peripheral neuropathy in the elderly is often caused by diabetes, alcoholism, or malignancy. Age does not appear to negatively impact the prognosis for these neuropathies.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Peripheral neuropathy affects elderly individuals, necessitating a review of its etiologies and clinical manifestations.
- Understanding the diverse causes of acquired neuropathy is crucial for effective patient management.
Observation:
- Fifty-nine elderly patients with diagnosed peripheral neuropathy were analyzed.
- Key etiological factors identified include diabetes, alcoholism, and malignancy.
- Other contributing factors such as drug toxicity, autoimmune disorders, and demyelinating neuropathies were also noted.
Findings:
- Postural hypotension was observed in four patients: three with diabetes and one with lymphoma.
- The study found no evidence that advanced age adversely affects the prognosis of peripheral neuropathy.
Implications:
- This research highlights the importance of considering common and less common causes of peripheral neuropathy in the elderly.
- The findings suggest that age alone should not deter aggressive management or influence prognostic expectations for elderly patients with neuropathy.
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