Neuropathy Neuropathy Causes and Risk Factors

Question 1

Which systemic disease is the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Diabetes mellitus

Answer

Diabetes mellitus is the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy in the US, affecting up to 50% of people with diabetes.

Question 2

Which vitamin deficiency is a well-recognized cause of peripheral neuropathy?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin B12

Answer

Vitamin B12 deficiency damages the myelin sheath of nerves, causing peripheral neuropathy.

Question 3

Long-term heavy alcohol use causes neuropathy primarily through which mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Direct neurotoxicity and nutritional deficiency

Answer

Alcohol causes neuropathy through direct toxic effects on nerves combined with nutritional deficiencies, especially thiamine.

Question 4

Which inherited disorder causes neuropathy due to abnormal myelin protein production?

Accepted Answer

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease

Answer

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is the most common inherited neuropathy, caused by mutations affecting myelin proteins.

Question 5

Which infectious disease is a notable cause of mononeuritis multiplex in the United States?

Accepted Answer

HIV/AIDS

Answer

HIV/AIDS can cause mononeuritis multiplex through direct viral invasion or opportunistic infections affecting nerves.

Neuropathy Practice Test