Mononeuritis multiplex

Mononeuritis multiplex (MNM) consists of a heterogeneous group of peripheral nerve disorders.

Presents with sensory and motor deficits in the distribution of specific peripheral nerves, and may be acute, sub-acute, or, rarely, chronic.

MNM is most commonly caused by vasculitis, which may be either systemic or isolated to the nerves. Other causes include hypersensitivity reactions to drugs or infections, or direct viral or bacterial infection of nerves.

Diagnosis is based on clinical picture and characteristic changes seen on biopsy.

Therapy varies with underlying MNM aetiology, with most vasculitic neuropathies treated with intravenous methylprednisolone, oral corticosteroids, and oral cyclophosphamide.

Plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin may be useful in some forms of MNM.

Azathioprine and oral cyclophosphamide are used for chronic maintenance therapy.

Mononeuritis multiplex (MNM) is a term used to describe a distinctive clinical presentation of progressive motor and sensory deficits in the distribution of specific peripheral nerves. A heterogeneous group of diseases lead to MNM. Involvement of each nerve occurs either sequentially or simultaneously. Pain is a frequent symptom in MNM, often with both neuropathic pain within the area of sensory loss and a deep pain in the affected extremity.