Infectious Neuropathies

Abstract

Objective This article discusses the clinical manifestations and management of infectious peripheral neuropathies. Latest Developments Several infectious etiologies of peripheral neuropathy are well-recognized and their treatments are firmly established. The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is associated with several central and peripheral nervous system manifestations, including peripheral neuropathies. Additionally, some COVID-19 vaccines have been associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome. These disorders are an active area of surveillance and research. Recent evidence-based guidelines have provided updated recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of Lyme disease. Essential Points Infectious agents of many types (primarily bacteria and viruses) can affect the peripheral nerves, resulting in various clinical syndromes such as mononeuropathy or mononeuropathy multiplex, distal symmetric polyneuropathy, radiculopathy, inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy, and motor neuronopathy. Knowledge of these infections and the spectrum of peripheral nervous system disorders associated with them is essential because many have curative treatments. Furthermore, understanding the neuropathic presentations of these disorders may assist in diagnosing the underlying infection.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome

“…However, a 2021 prospective cohort study and a 2022 retrospective epidemiologic study did not support any significant causal link between COVID-19 and GBS. 10,11 For more information, refer to the article "Infectious Neuropathies" by Aimee K. Boegle, MD, PhD, and Pushpa Narayanaswami, MD, FAAN, 12 in this issue of Continuum.…”