The pathology of toxic axonal neuropathy: a clinical-experimental link

One of the most common pathological manifestations of neurotoxin-induced axonal disease is selective vulnerability and degeneration of long and large axons. In intoxicated humans, this pathologic pattern explains the clinical symptoms and signs. In experimental animals, an evaluation using sensory-motor behavioral battery produces a similar, length-related pattern of neurobehavioral dysfunction. Thus, pathology provides an important basis for cross-species extrapolations. Directions for future research are discussed.