Peripheral Nerve Disorders and Neuroplasticity

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to peripheral nerve disorders and their implications.

Bell Palsy

Unilateral paralysis of the face due to an acute inflammatory process affecting the facial nerve (CN VII), often with normal sensation and recovery in weeks to months.

Neuropraxia

A nerve injury resulting in a transient and focal loss of function, often due to compressive forces, with the potential for rapid recovery.

Axonotmesis

Partial damage to the axon and myelin, associated with connective tissue damage, requiring longer recovery time than neuropraxia.

Neurotmesis

Complete severing of the axon and all associated connective tissues, leading to total loss of function, often requiring surgical intervention.

Collateral Sprouting

A process where intact axons innervate denervated target muscles, potentially altering muscle fiber type.

Polyneuropathy

A condition involving multiple peripheral nerves, often associated with risk factors such as diabetes, alcoholism, and autoimmune diseases.

Segmental Demyelination

A pathological process that primarily affects the myelin sheath, allowing remyelination if treated.

Axonal Degeneration

A condition where axons are damaged more than myelin, often leading to degeneration typically progressing from distal to proximal.

Mononeuropathy

Involvement of a single peripheral nerve, commonly seen in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.

Radiculopathy

Involvement of nerve root(s), often causing pain or sensory loss in the area innervated by the affected root.