Who is at risk for peripheral neuropathy?
Peripheral neuritis—also known as “polyneuritis”—is a bilateral, symmetrical, distal, and multifocal degenerative disorder affecting peripheral nerves. Its primary manifestations include symmetrical motor dysfunction, sensory disturbances, and autonomic nervous system dysfunction in the distal limbs. The disease course may be acute, subacute, or chronic. So, who is at risk for peripheral neuritis? Below, we address this question.
Who Is at Risk for Peripheral Neuritis?
1. Genetic Factors
Hereditary conditions—including hereditary ataxic peripheral neuropathy, progressive hypertrophic polyneuropathy (Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease), and hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathies—as well as other chronic progressive or recurrent polyneuropathies significantly increase an individual’s susceptibility to polyneuritis.
2. Individuals with Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus itself can damage peripheral nerves—particularly the distal nerves—leading to neuropathy. Moreover, diabetic patients undergoing pharmacotherapy may experience increased depletion of B vitamins, further contributing to nerve damage. Therefore, appropriate supplementation with B-complex vitamins is recommended for such patients.
3. Nutritional Deficiencies
Deficiencies in B vitamins—especially vitamin B12—or chronic alcohol intoxication are common causes. Additionally, gastrointestinal disorders—such as gastric ulcers, gastritis, or prior gastrectomy due to gastric malignancy—can impair absorption of B vitamins, thereby predisposing individuals to peripheral neuritis.
4. Exposure to Chemical Agents and Medications
Common causative agents include isoniazid and phenytoin sodium. Other chemical toxins—such as tri-ortho-cresyl phosphate (TOCP), organochlorine insecticides, organophosphate pesticides—as well as heavy metal poisoning (e.g., arsenic, lead, mercury) can all induce peripheral neuropathy. Furthermore, certain infectious or hypersensitivity-related conditions—including serum sickness or adverse reactions following vaccination—may also trigger polyneuritis.
The above outlines the major risk groups for peripheral neuritis. We hope this information is helpful to you.
