Mononeuritis multiplex in polyarteritis nodosa

Abstract

The neuropathy of polyarteritis nodosa appears to exhibit a state of mononeuritis multiplex, particularly well seen at the onset. Symmetrical polyneuritis, usually developing at a late stage, probably is due to coalescence of sensory and motor disturbance caused by multiple nerve lesions. Biopsy of a nerve and its attendant nutrient artery is an easy and feasible procedure and may be essential for diagnosis. There is some evidence that corticosteroids may be deleterious in polyarteritis neuropathy, particularly when it exists on a background of rheumatoid arthritis. Penicillin and other antibiotics, especially if allergy is present, may also have untoward effects in polyarteritis nodosa. As a corollary, it might be possible to apply this technique for the more accurate diagnosis of other neuropathies.