Nutritional Peripheral Neuropathies-Review and Practical Approach
摘要
Nutritional neuropathies are a treatable yet often underrecognized group of disorders resulting from deficiencies in essential nutrients such as B vitamins (B1, B6, B9, B12), vitamin E, and copper. These deficiencies commonly arise from malabsorption, alcoholism, bariatric surgery, and inadequate dietary intake, with emerging evidence highlighting high-calorie malnutrition in obesity as a significant but overlooked cause. This review examines recent advancements in the diagnosis and management of nutritional neuropathies, emphasizing the need for improved recognition and intervention strategies.
Recent FindingsNutritional neuropathies present with a wide clinical spectrum, including sensory-predominant peripheral neuropathies, myelopathies, and neuropsychiatric manifestations. Recent studies reveal limitations in conventional laboratory diagnostics, underscoring the necessity of integrating functional biomarkers and comprehensive clinical assessments. Populations at elevated risk, including post-bariatric surgery patients, individuals with alcohol use disorder, and those with malabsorption syndromes, require proactive screening and tailored interventions. Emerging evidence also suggests that obesity-related nutrient imbalances contribute to neuropathy, challenging conventional perspectives on the relationship between nutrition and nerve health.
SummaryEarly recognition, thorough diagnostic evaluation, and targeted treatment strategies are critical to preventing irreversible neurological damage in nutritional neuropathies. A multidisciplinary approach—encompassing dietary modifications, individualized supplementation, and patient education—remains essential for optimizing outcomes. Given the rising prevalence of obesity and bariatric surgery, clinicians must expand diagnostic approaches and maintain a high index of suspicion to effectively identify and manage these reversible conditions.