Focal neuropathies: a neuroanatomical approach to diagnosis and management
We provide a framework for clinically evaluating and managing focal neuropathies, emphasising the value of functional neuroanatomy in their diagnosis. Rather than relying solely on electrophysiology, we advocate an approach that aligns specific symptoms with known anatomical pathways to improve clinical diagnostic accuracy. We structure the paper around common clinical presentations of various mononeuropathies involving the upper and lower limbs. By categorising disorders based on their typical motor and sensory manifestations, we offer a practical approach to identifying nerve entrapments and injuries. We also explore how traditional bedside assessment can be used alongside advanced imaging to inform diagnosis and management.
Authors
- Gareth Llewelyn
- Haider A. Katifi (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8834-7997)
- Muhammed Ameen Noushad
- Dafydd Llewelyn (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0006-1408-9984)
Institutions
- Royal Gwent Hospital (GB)
- Princess Alexandra Hospital (AU)
- Essex Cardiothoracic Centre (GB)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Practical Neurology
- Published
- 2026-09-25
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1136/pn-2026-005108
- Primary Topic
- Peripheral Nerve Disorders
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00