Introduction: Meralgia paresthetica (MP) is a neuropathy caused by the impairment of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN), leading to symptoms such as pain, paresthesia, and dysesthesia in the lateral thigh region. Objective: To discuss the epidemiology, clinical presentation, risk factors, neuroanatomy, pathophysiology, and complementary diagnostic exams of MP. Discussion: MP is characterized by sensory symptoms in the anterolateral thigh, including pain, burning, vibration sensation, cold sensation, and paresthesia. It can be bilateral in 10% to 18% of cases and is associated with risk factors such as pregnancy, diabetes mellitus, obesity (BMI ≥ 30), Hansen‘s disease, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, iatrogenic causes, prolonged prone positioning, local trauma, and toxins. The LFCN, a purely sensory nerve, originates from L2 and L3, passing through the pelvis and under the inguinal ligament (IL), where compression commonly occurs. Clinical diagnosis is supported by the pelvic compression test and anesthetic block. Exams such as ultrasound (US) and electroneuromyography (ENM) enhance diagnostic accuracy. Conclusion: MP is a rare lower limb neuropathy with various etiologies. Diagnosis is clinical but can be confirmed by complementary exams, including US and ENM. Despite its benign nature, MP significantly impacts quality of life, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.