Alcoholic Neuropathy

Alcoholic neuropathy is a distal symmetric sensorimotor polyneuropathy associated with chronic alcohol abuse and nutritional deficiencies, particularly of thiamine, folate, and vitamin B12. Pathophysiologically, it involves axonal degeneration and demyelination of peripheral nerves. Patients typically present with distal paresthesia, numbness, burning pain, and weakness, progressing proximally. Diagnosis is clinical, supported by electrophysiologic studies demonstrating length-dependent axonal neuropathy. Treatment involves alcohol cessation, nutritional supplementation, pain management, and rehabilitation; prognosis improves with early intervention but may remain incomplete.