Peripheral neuropathy in cystic fibrosis: A prevalence study

BackgroundInformation on peripheral neuropathy in children with cystic fibrosis is scanty. The etiology can be multifactorial (micronutrient deficiency, chronic hypoxia, impaired glucose tolerance, immunological, vasculopathic, critical illness).MethodsForty five cystic fibrosis children aged 1-18 years on vitamin E supplementation for at least 6 months underwent detailed neurological examination, serum vitamin E, vitamin B12, folate, copper levels and detailed nerve conduction studies.ResultsThe mean age of the study population was 8.35 years (± 4.9 years) with 62.2% being males. Overall 22 out of 45 (48.88%,CI: 33.7-64.2) had electrophysiological evidence of peripheral neuropathy which was predominantly axonal (86.4%), sensory (50%), and polyneuropathy (95.45%). There was no significant association between status of serum micronutrients and electrophysiological evidence of peripheral neuropathy.ConclusionPatients with cystic fibrosis have electrophysiological evidence of peripheral neuropathy (predominantly axonal, sensory and polyneuropathy). There is significant association of higher chronological age with occurrence of peripheral neuropathy.