What Are the Treatments for Axonal Demylinizing Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is a neurological disorder affecting the body's motor, sensory and, in some patients, autonomic nerves. Causes include diabetes, HIV, vitamin deficiencies, alcoholism or reactions to certain drugs. Advances in diagnostic testing allow physicians to determine the most appropriate treatment for the various types of neuropathies.

Most Common Treatments

• Neuropathy is classified by an electrophysiological exam, which helps determine whether the myelin sheath or axon of the peripheral system is affected. In some patients, the peripheral neuropathy is determined to be axonal and demyelinating. For many of these patients, treatments include steroids, other prescription medications and/or a plasma exchange.

  Plasma exchange, or plasmapheresis, introduces plasma that is free of antibodies and immune cells back into the body, thereby limiting inflammation and suppressing the immune system. An intravenous dosage of immunoglobins can work as antibodies, which can also curb activities of the immune system.

Inherited Peripheral Neuropathy

• No cures have been found for inherited peripheral neuropathy. However, symptoms can be managed and lessened. Cramping can be eased through exercise because it strengthens muscles and wards off the wasting of muscles in limbs that are paralyzed. Patients with inherited forms of the condition should also enlist dietary strategies to help cope with gastrointestinal symptoms.

Treatments Through Healthy Living

• Upon diagnosis, patients with this form of peripheral neuropathy should stop smoking, as it constricts blood vessels, diminishing the supply of vital nutrients to the peripheral nerves throughout the body. This can worsen symptoms and cause further damage.

  Diabetics suffering this form of neuropathy should be particularly diligent in caring for their feet and any wounds. This will ease symptoms and spur the regeneration of nerves.