Neuropathy Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield Neuropathy facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. In a 'stocking-glove' distribution of symptoms, where do sensory changes typically begin first? → The toes and feet
2. A patient suddenly develops weakness and numbness confined to the distribution of a single nerve, such as wrist drop. This pattern is called: → Mononeuropathy
3. Which topical agent derived from chili peppers can relieve localized neuropathic pain? → Capsaicin
4. Which antibody is highly specific for Miller Fisher Syndrome, a variant of GBS? → Anti-GQ1b IgG
5. For neuropathy caused by alcohol use, which intervention is essential to treatment? → Alcohol cessation
6. Which complication of diabetic neuropathy is most directly responsible for lower limb amputations? → Loss of protective sensation leading to undetected foot ulcers
7. Which topical treatment is FDA-approved for localized painful diabetic neuropathy of the feet? → Capsaicin 8% patch (Qutenza)
8. Genetic testing may be appropriate when neuropathy presents with what feature? → A strong family history and early onset
9. Pressure ulcers in neuropathy patients most commonly develop over which anatomical sites? → Plantar aspect of the foot over bony prominences
10. Alpha-lipoic acid is a supplement studied mainly for neuropathy related to which condition? → Diabetes
11. A patient with autonomic neuropathy reports feeling full after only a few bites and frequent nausea. This gastrointestinal symptom is called: → Gastroparesis
12. Which occupational exposure is a recognized risk factor for toxic peripheral neuropathy? → Lead and heavy metal exposure
13. Compression stockings are recommended for autonomic neuropathy patients with orthostatic hypotension because they achieve which effect? → Reduce venous pooling in the legs during standing
14. What are the most serious symptoms of peripheral neuropathy? → Difficulty breathing or irregular heartbeat
15. A duloxetine prescription for a neuropathy patient works mainly because it is a(n): → SNRI antidepressant that modulates pain pathways
16. According to ADA guidelines, at what point after type 2 diabetes diagnosis should peripheral neuropathy screening begin? → At the time of diagnosis
17. Which imaging study may be ordered to look for nerve compression as a cause of neuropathy? → MRI
18. Which antibody is strongly associated with Multifocal Motor Neuropathy (MMN)? → Anti-GM1 IgM antibodies
19. What are the accepted first-line treatments for CIDP? → Corticosteroids, IVIG, or plasmapheresis
20. Why are opioids generally not preferred as first-line neuropathic pain treatment? → Risk of dependence and limited long-term benefit
21. A patient notices they cannot feel the temperature of bathwater accurately with their feet. Which fiber type is most likely affected? → Small unmyelinated/thinly myelinated fibers
22. Which systemic connective tissue disease is most commonly associated with vasculitic neuropathy? → Rheumatoid arthritis
23. Which of the following is a common physical exam finding in peripheral neuropathy? → Diminished or absent ankle reflexes
24. Which antiepileptic drug has been associated with causing a reversible peripheral neuropathy with long-term use? → Phenytoin
25. What is the most common acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy? → Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)
26. Mononeuropathy differs from polyneuropathy in that mononeuropathy: → Affects a single nerve
27. How many different types of peripheral neuropathy are there? → More than 100
28. Which chemotherapy drug class is most commonly associated with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN)? → Taxanes and platinum compounds
29. Which class of medication is commonly prescribed to manage neuropathic pain? → Anticonvulsants such as gabapentin
30. Which blood test is commonly ordered to rule out a reversible cause of neuropathy? → Vitamin B12 level