neuropathy

neu·rop·a·thy

noun \nu̇-ˈrä-pə-thē, nyu̇-\

plural neu·rop·a·thies

Definition of NEUROPATHY

: an abnormal and usually degenerative state of the nervous system or nerves; also : a systemic condition that stems from a neuropathy

— neu·ro·path·ic \ˌnu̇r-ə-ˈpa-thik, ˌnyu̇r-\ adjective

— neu·ro·path·i·cal·ly \-thi-k(ə-)lē\ adverb

Origin of NEUROPATHY

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use: circa 1857

neu·rop·a·thy

noun \n(y)u̇-ˈräp-ə-thē\   (Medical Dictionary)

plural ; neu·rop·a·thies

Medical Definition of NEUROPATHY

: an abnormal and usually degenerative state of the nervous system or nerves; also : a systemic condition (as muscular atrophy) that stems from a neuropathy

neuropathy

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Disorder of the peripheral nervous system. It may be genetic or acquired, progress quickly or slowly, involve motor, sensory, and/or autonomic (see autonomic nervous system) nerves, and affect only certain nerves or all of them. It can cause pain or loss of sensation, weakness, paralysis, loss of reflexes, muscle atrophy, or, in autonomic neuropathies, disturbances of blood pressure, heart rate, or bladder and bowel control; impotence; and inability to focus the eyes. Some types damage the neuron itself, others the myelin sheath that insulates it. Examples include carpal tunnel syndrome, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, poliomyelitis, and shingles. Causes include diseases (e.g., diabetes mellitus, leprosy, syphilis), injury, toxins, and vitamin deficiency (e.g., beriberi). See also neuralgia; neuritis.