Age-stratified mosaic of neuropathies: a comprehensive analysis of the prevalence and patterns in different age groups

Abstract

Background and Objective: Neuropathies pose significant challenges in diagnosis and management due to their heterogeneous etiologies, varied clinical presentations, and differential prevalence across age groups. The objective of this study was to analyze the distribution of neuropathies among patients in various age brackets, highlighting prevalent neuropathic types and their clinical implications. Methods: From September 18, 2018 to September 17, 2019, 405 patients from Neurology Ward of Chandka Medical College Hospital in Larkana were included in this retrospective cross-sectional comprehensive analysis. Nerve conduction studies (NCS) of these patients were conducted in the electrophysiology department. The study cohort was stratified into age groups, allowing us to compare the frequency and NCS findings of various neuropathies. Statistical analysis using SPSS 23 was performed to ascertain the prevalence and distribution of specific neuropathies across different age brackets. Results: In the younger age group below 20 years, a prominent prevalence of neuropathies linked to hereditary factors was notable. Contrastingly, within the 20-40 age stratum, distinctive distribution patterns were observed, showcasing prevalent occurrences of Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (AIDP) and those induced by trauma. Similarly, in the 40-60 and above 60 age cohorts, unique prevalence profiles emerged, spotlighting Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) and neuropathies associated with diabetes and malignancies as most common. Conclusion: The findings of this study shed light on the age-related distribution of neuropathies and the corresponding NCS profiles. Such insights can aid in improving the diagnosis and management of neuropathies based on age, ensuring more tailored and effective healthcare strategies.