[Metabolic neuropathies]

Abstract

Due to the high prevalence of diabetic neuropathies, metabolic neuropathies are common. "Diabetic neuropathy" is a slowly progressive painful sensory neuropathy evolving with a length dependent pattern. Slight distal weakness of toes extensor can be observed. Trophic changes and autonomic neuropathy can lead to severe complications (diabetic foot ulceration or symptomatic postural hypotension). Multifocal neuropathies can also be encountered with diabetes. With such neuropathic pattern, other causes of neuropathy should be excluded and patients should be referred to specialised centres. Other metabolic neuropathies can occur, especially alcoholic neuropathies and uremic neuropathies. Laboratory tests are an important part in the diagnostic procedure to look for a metabolic cause.