Immune-mediated rheumatic diseases and their peripheral neuropathy manifestations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63162/v66n68e25627Keywords:
Autoimmune diseases, Early diagnosis, Inflammation, Peripheral neuropathy, RheumatologyAbstract
Immune-mediated rheumatic diseases (IMRDs) frequently involve neurological complications, with peripheral neuropathy being a relevant but underdiagnosed manifestation. This integrative review evaluated evidence on the prevalence, clinical patterns, and associated factors of neuropathy in rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, and systemic vasculitis. A literature search was conducted in the PubMed database, including studies published between 2010 and 2025. Findings show that peripheral neuropathy is highly prevalent in rheumatoid arthritis, often subclinical, and in vasculitis, where it presents acutely and with severe symptoms. In Sjögren’s disease, specific sensory forms and small fiber neuropathy may precede classic symptoms. In systemic lupus erythematosus, neuropathy occurs early and in association with disease activity and responds well to immunosuppressive therapy. The study highlights the importance of early identification of peripheral neuropathy in autoimmune diseases, allowing more effective interventions and improved functional prognosis.
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