Hereditary Neuropathies
Hereditary neuropathies are a group of genetic disorders that affect the peripheral nervous system, which includes the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. These conditions can lead to symptoms such as muscle weakness, numbness, and pain, often impacting daily activities. The most common type is Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, which is caused by mutations in genes responsible for nerve function.
These neuropathies can be inherited in various patterns, including autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, and X-linked inheritance. Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, family history, and nerve conduction studies. While there is no cure, management focuses on alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life.