Abstract Body

Background and Aim and learning objectives:

Peripheral neuropathy refers to disorders of the peripheral nervous system. The overall prevalence is 2-4% in the general population and 8% in people older than 55 years. [1] Finding the ethiology of a patient’s peripheral neuropathy can be challenging, so a systematic and logical approach is needed: detailed history of symptoms, family and occupational history and a general and systemic examination [2]. The main purpose of this workshop is to provide an overview of peripheral neuropathy diagnosis as well as some strategies for systematic physical exam.

Methods and timetable.

The workshop will be divided into two parts. The first one, will be an oral presentation where we aim to review the definitions and different causes of peripheral neuropathy, clinical approach and general examination. And a second part, where practitioners will learn how to apply validated questionnaires of diagnosis and severity which are a reliable and valid instrument for assessment of patients neuropathy, and also will have the opportunity to practice and improve the techniques of the physical exam for neurologic examination.

(Proposed) Results / Conclusions:

In the end, we hope that the general physicians can feel more aware about how to perform a reliable examination of peripheral nervous system. An accurate diagnosis it's essential for good management and to delay the progress of the neuropathy.

References:

[1] Martyn CN, Hughes RAC. Epidemiology of peripheral neuropathy. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 1997; 62: 310–18 . Doi: 10.1136/jnnp.62.4.310

[2] Misra UK, Kalita J, Nair PP. Diagnostic approach to peripheral neuropathy. Ann Indian Acad Neurol. 2008 Apr;11(2):89-97. doi: 10.4103/0972-2327.41875.