Neur Health Dictionary

Neur: From 1 Different Sources


Neuralgia

A painful affection of the nerves due to functional disturbances or neuritis... neuralgia

Neurasthenia

Nervous debility... neurasthenia

Acoustic Neuroma

A slow-growing, benign tumour in the auditory canal arising from the Schwann cells of the acoustic cranial nerve. The neuroma, which accounts for about 7 per cent of all tumours inside the CRANIUM, may cause facial numbness, hearing loss, unsteady balance, headache, and TINNITUS. It can usually be removed surgically, sometimes with microsurgical techniques that preserve the facial nerve.... acoustic neuroma

Neuritis

Nerve inflammation, usually with an abnormal amount of pain, and often part of a degenerative process.... neuritis

Trigeminal Neuralgia

Facial neuralgia or tic doulourex. This is pain of the gasserian ganglion or one or more branches of the trigeminal nerves. It is felt as pain along the side or top of the head, the scalp and around the eyes...a “skin headache”...and sometimes accompanied by facial muscle cramps. It is usually initiated by trigger points, with blood sugar irregularities and substance sensitivities often lowering their threshold of irritation.... trigeminal neuralgia

Neuroblastoma

A malignant growth comprising embryonic nerve cells. It may start in any part of the AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM. The medulla of the adrenal gland (see under ENDOCRINE GLANDS) is a common site; secondary growths develop in other tissues. Neuroblastomas are the most common extracranial solid tumour of childhood. The incidence is around eight cases per one million children. Treatment is by surgery followed by radiotherapy and CYTOTOXIC drugs. About 30 per cent of sufferers survive for at least ?ve years after treatment.... neuroblastoma

Neurology

The branch of medical practice and science which is concerned with the study of the NERVOUS SYSTEM and its disorders. Specialists in neurology – neurologists – examine a patient’s nerves, sensory and motor functions and re?exes. They use modern imaging techniques

– for example, CT scanning (see COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY) and MRI – to aid diagnosis. Until relatively recently, many neurological conditions could be treated only with palliative methods. Now there is much improved understanding of the nervous system and its disorders, with closer liaison between psychiatrists (see PSYCHIATRY) and neurologists.... neurology

Neuroma

Neuroma means a TUMOUR connected with a NERVE – such tumours being generally composed of ?brous tissue, and of a painful nature.... neuroma

Neuropathy

A disease affecting nerves (see NERVE). It may affect a single nerve (mononeuropathy) or be a generalised disorder (polyneuropathy). Symptoms will depend on whether motor, sensory, or autonomic nerves are affected. Trauma or entrapment of a nerve is a common cause of mononeuropathy, pressure or stretching of a nerve occurring in various situations. Complete recovery in 4–6 weeks is usual. Common causes of polyneuropathy include DIABETES MELLITUS, vitamin B de?ciency (often alcohol-associated) and some viral infections. Genetic and toxic neuropathies are also seen.... neuropathy

Neurosis

A general term applied to mental or emotional disturbance in which, as opposed to PSYCHOSIS, there is no serious disturbance in the perception or understanding of external reality. However, the boundaries between neurosis and psychosis are not always clearly de?ned. Neuroses are usually classi?ed into anxiety neuroses, depressive neuroses, phobias (see PHOBIA), HYPOCHONDRIASIS, HYSTERIA and obsessional neuroses.

Anxiety neurosis, or anxiety state, constitutes the most common form of neurosis; fortunately it is also among the most responsive to treatment. Once the neurosis develops, sufferers are in a state of persistent anxiety and worry, ‘tensed up’, always fatigued and unable to sleep at night. In addition, there are often physical complaints – for example, palpitations, sweating, apparent discomfort on swallowing (‘globus’), and headache.

Obsessional neuroses are much less common and constitute only about 5 per cent of all neuroses. Like other neuroses, they usually develop in early adult life. (See MENTAL ILLNESS.)... neurosis

Neurosurgery

Surgery performed on some part of the NERVOUS SYSTEM, whether brain, spinal cord or nerves. Disorders treated by neurosurgeons include damage to the brain, spinal cord and nerves as a result of injury; tumours in the CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM; abnormalities of blood vessels in or supplying blood to the brain – for example, ANEURYSM; brain abscess; bleeding inside the skull; and certain birth defects such as HYDROCEPHALUS and SPINA BIFIDA.... neurosurgery

Optic Neuritis

In?ammation of the optic nerve (see EYE) which may result in sudden loss of part of a person’s vision. It is usually accompanied by pain and tenderness on touch. The cause is uncertain, although in some cases it may be a prcursor of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS): CORTICOSTEROIDS may help by improving the loss of visual acuity, but seems not to check the long-term in?ammatory activity.... optic neuritis

Neurotransmitter

A chemical substance which transmits the action of a NERVE to a cell (see CELLS). It is released from nerve-endings and transmits the impulse across synapses (see SYNAPSE) to other nerves. In the central nervous system the substances acting as neurotransmitters include ACETYLCHOLINE, NORADRENALINE, DOPAMINE and SEROTONIN. The main transmitter in the peripheral system is acetylcholine, while for the sympathetic system it is noradrenaline. In recent years a new group of neurotransmitters called neuropeptides has been identi?ed, comprising large protein molecules. One of the best-known is that of endorphins, which the brain uses to control pain. (See also NEURON(E); NERVOUS SYSTEM; PAIN.)... neurotransmitter

Retrobulbar Neuritis

In?ammation of the optic nerve behind (rather than within) the EYE. It usually occurs in young adults and presents with a rapid deterioration in vision over a few hours. Colour vision is also impaired. Usually vision recovers over a few weeks, but colour vision may be permanently lost. It can be associated with certain viral illnesses and with MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS). (See also EYE, DISORDERS OF.)... retrobulbar neuritis

Cardiac Neurosis

Obsessional fear about the state of the heart. It tends to occur after a heart attack and may result in the patient’s experiencing the symptoms of another attack.... cardiac neurosis

Motor Neurone Disease (mnd)

A group of disorders of unknown origin. Certain cells in the neurological system’s MOTOR nerves degenerate and die. Upper and lower motor neurones may be affected but sensory cells retain their normal functions. Three types of MND are identi?ed: amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (AML – 50 per cent of patients); progressive muscular atrophy (25 per cent), in which the prognosis is better than for AML; and bulbar palsy (25 per cent). Men are affected more than women, and the disorder affects about seven people in every 100,000. Those affected develop progressive weakness and wasting of their muscles. The diagnosis is con?rmed with various tests including the measurement of electrical activity in muscles, electromyography, muscle BIOPSY, blood tests and X-ray examination of the spine. There is no medical treatment: patients need physical and psychological support with aids to help them overcome disabilities. The Motor Neurone Disease Association provides excellent advice and help for sufferers and their relatives. (See APPENDIX 2: ADDRESSES: SOURCES OF INFORMATION, ADVICE, SUPPORT AND SELF-HELP.)... motor neurone disease (mnd)

Neural Tube

The structure in the EMBRYO from which the BRAIN and SPINAL CORD develop.... neural tube

Neural Tube Defects

Congenital abnormalities resulting from the failure of the NEURAL TUBE to form normally. The resulting conditions include SPINA BIFIDA, MENINGOCELE and defects in the bones of the SKULL.... neural tube defects

Neurectomy

An operation in which part of a NERVE is excised: for example, for the relief of NEURALGIA.... neurectomy

Neurilemma

The thin membranous covering which surrounds every nerve-?bre. (See NERVE.)... neurilemma

Neurogenic

Sensations or conditions derived solely from the nervous system... neurogenic

Neuroglia

The ?ne web of tissue and branching cells which supports the nerve-?bres and cells of the nervous system. (See NERVE.)... neuroglia

Neuromuscular Junction

The area where a motor NERVE ends close to the MUSCLE membrane so can initiate muscle contraction. The motor-nerve ending is separated from the motor end plate by the synaptic cleft which is only 50–70 nm wide. When a nerve impulse arrives at the motor-nerve ending, molecules of ACETYLCHOLINE are released which cross the synaptic cleft and attach to receptors on the motor end plate. This initiates depolarisation of the muscle which in turn initiates the process of contraction. Acetylcholinesterase (an ENZYME) rapidly breaks down the molecules of acetylcholine, thus ending their action and freeing the receptor in preparation for the next impulse.... neuromuscular junction

Neuropathic Bladder

A URINARY BLADDER with complete or partial loss of sensation. As there is no sensation of fullness, the individual either develops complete retention of URINE, or the bladder empties automatically – usually every few hours. The condition predisposes affected individuals to urinary-tract infections and back pressure on the KIDNEYS, leading to renal failure. It may be caused by spinal injury, SPINA BIFIDA or any disorder which produces NEUROPATHY.... neuropathic bladder

Neuropathology

The branch of PATHOLOGY that covers the reasons for and consequences of disorders of the NERVOUS SYSTEM (see also NEUROLOGY).... neuropathology

Neurotoxin

A chemical substance that harms nervous tissue, causing symptoms of numbness or weakness of the body part supplied by the damaged NERVE. The venom of some snakes contains neurotoxic substances, and bacteria may produce neurotoxins: examples are those that cause DIPHTHERIA and TETANUS. Arsenic and lead are examples of inorganic neurotoxins.... neurotoxin

Entrapment Neuropathy

A condition, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, in which local pressure on a nerve causes muscle pain, numbness, and weakness in the area that the nerve supplies.... entrapment neuropathy

Motor Neuron Disease

A group of disorders in which there is degeneration of the nerves in the central nervous system that control muscular activity. This causes weakness and wasting of the muscles. The cause is unknown.

The most common type of motor neuron disease is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( or Lou Gehrig’s disease). It usually affects people over the age of 50 and is more common in men. Some cases run in families. Usually, symptoms start with weakness in the hands and arms or legs, and muscle wasting. There may be irregular muscle contractions, and muscle cramps or stiffness. All four extremities are soon affected.

Progressive muscular atrophy and progressive bulbar palsy both start with patterns of muscle weakness different from but usually develop into.There are 2 types of motor neuron disease that first appear in childhood or adolescence. In most cases, these conditions are inherited. Werdnig–Hoffman disease affects infants at birth or soon afterwards. In almost all cases, progressive muscle weakness leads to death within several years. Chronic spinal muscular atrophy begins in childhood or adolescence, causing progressive weakness but not always serious disability.

There are no specific tests for motor neuron disease. Diagnosis is based on careful clinical examination by a neurologist. Tests including EMG, muscle biopsy, blood tests, myelography, CT scanning, or MRI may be performed.

The disease typically goes on to affect the muscles involved in breathing and swallowing, leading to death within 2–4 years. However, about 10 per cent of sufferers survive for 10 years.

Nerve degeneration cannot be slowed down, but physiotherapy and the use of various aids may help to reduce disability. The drug riluzole is used to extend life (or the time until mechanical ventilation is required).... motor neuron disease

Neurapraxia

A type of nerve injury in which the outward structure of a nerve appears intact, but some of the conducting fibres have been damaged or have degenerated and thus do not transmit signals normally.... neurapraxia

Neurodermatitis

An itchy, eczema-like skin condition caused by repeated

scratching. (See also lichen simplex.)... neurodermatitis

Neurofibromatosis

An uncommon disorder that is inherited. Also called von Recklinghausen’s disease, neurofibromatosis is characterized by numerous neurofibromas (soft, fibrous swellings, varying significantly in size), which grow from nerves, and by café au lait spots (pale, coffee-coloured patches) on the skin, usually on the trunk and pelvis. If neurofibromas occur in the central nervous system, they may cause epilepsy and other complications. Neurofibromatosis can lead to bone deformities. Rarely, neurofibromas become cancerous.

Surgical removal of neurofibromas is necessary only if there are complications.

Anyone with this disorder, and parents of an affected child, should seek genetic counselling if planning a pregnancy.... neurofibromatosis

Neuron

The term used to describe a nerve cell. A typical neuron consists of a cell body, several branching projections called dendrites, and a filamentous projection called an axon (also known as a nerve fibre). An axon branches at its end to form terminals through which electrical signals are transmitted to target cells. Most axons are coated with a layered insulating myelin sheath, which speeds the transmission of the signals. The myelin sheath is punctuated along its length by gaps called nodes of Ranvier, which help this process. Because the myelin sheath is nonconductive, ion exchange (depolarization) only occurs at a node, and signals leap from node to node along the length of the axon.

The nervous system contains billions of neurons, of which there are 3 main types: sensory neurons, which carry signals from sense receptors into the central nervous system (CNS); motor neurons, which carry signals from the CNS to muscles or glands; and interneurons, which form all the complex electrical circuitry within the CNS itself.

When a neuron transmits (“fires”) an electrical impulse, a chemical called a neurotransmitter is released from the axon terminals at synapses (junctions with other neurons). This neurotransmitter may make a muscle cell contract, cause an endocrine gland to release a hormone, or affect an adjacent neuron.

Different stimuli excite different types of neurons to fire. Sensory neurons, for example, may be excited by physical stimuli, such as cold or pressure. The activity of most neurons is controlled by the effects of neurotransmitters released from adjacent neurons. Certain neurotransmitters generate a sudden change in the balance of electrical potential inside and outside the cell (an “action potential”), which occurs at one point on the cell’s membrane and flows at high speed along it. Others stabilize neuronal membranes, preventing an action potential. Thus, the firing pattern of a neuron depends on the balance of excitatory and inhibitory influences acting on it.

If the cell body of a neuron is damaged or degenerates, the cell dies and is never replaced. A baby starts life with the maximum number of neurons, which decreases continuously thereafter.... neuron

Neuropsychiatry

The branch of medicine dealing with the relationship between psychiatric symptoms and neurological disorder.

This may include the effects of head injury and alcohol on the brain, or disorders such as brain tumours, infections, inherited illnesses, and disorders causing brain damage in childhood.... neuropsychiatry

Neurosyphilis

Infection of the brain or spinal cord that occurs in untreated syphilis many years after initial infection.

Damage to the spinal cord due to neurosyphilis may cause tabes dorsalis, characterized by poor coordination of leg movements, urinary incontinence, and pains in the abdomen and limbs. Damage to the brain may cause dementia, muscle weakness, and, in rare cases, total paralysis of the limbs.... neurosyphilis

Neuracanthus Sphaerostachyus

Dalz.

Family: Acanthaceae.

Habitat: Western Ghats, Deccan and Gujarat.

Folk: Ganther (Gujarat and Maharashtra), Ghosa-vel (Maharashtra).

Action: Root-paste applied to ringworm.... neuracanthus sphaerostachyus

Neurodermatoses

See under SKIN, DISEASES OF.... neurodermatoses

Neurofibrils

A microscopic strand of CYTOPLASM that occurs in the cell body of a NEURON(E) as well as in the semi?uid content of the AXON of a nerve cell.... neurofibrils

Neurofibromatosis

See VON RECKLINGHAUSEN’S DISEASE.... neurofibromatosis

Neuroleptics

Drugs used to quieten disturbed patients, whether this is the result of brain damage, MANIA, DELIRIUM, agitated DEPRESSION or an acute behavioural disturbance. They relieve the ?orid PSYCHOTIC symptoms such as hallucinations and thought-disorder in SCHIZOPHRENIA and prevent relapse of this disorder when it is in remission.

Most of these drugs act by blocking DOPAMINE receptors. As a result they can give rise to the extrapyramidal effects of PARKINSONISM and may also cause HYPERPROLACTINAEMIA.

Troublesome side-effects may require control by ANTICHOLINERGIC drugs. The main antipsychotic drugs are: (i) chlorpromazine, methotrimeprazine and promazine, characterised by pronounced sedative effects and a moderate anticholinergic and extrapyramidal e?ect; (ii) pericyazine, pipothiazine and thioridazine, which have moderate sedative effects and marked anticholinergic effects, but less extrapyramidal effects than the other groups; (iii) ?uphenazine, perphenazine, prochlorperazine, sulpiride and tri?uoperazine, which have fewer sedative effects and fewer anticholinergic effects, but more pronounced extrapyramidal effects.... neuroleptics

Neuromuscular Blockade

In clinical practice, the transmission of impulses at the NEUROMUSCULAR JUNCTION may be blocked to paralyse temporarily a patient for a surgical procedure, or to assist treatment on the intensive care unit. There are two main types of drug, both of which competitively block the ACETYLCHOLINE receptors on the motor end plates. (1) Depolarising neuromuscular blocking agents: these act by ?rst producing stimulation at the receptor, and then by blocking it. There are characteristic muscle fasciculations before the rapid onset of paralysis which is of short duration (less than ?ve minutes with the commonly used drug, suxamethonium). The drug is removed from the receptor by the enzyme, CHOLINESTERASE.

(2) Non-depolarising neuromuscular blocking agents: these drugs occupy the receptor and prevent acetylcholine from becoming attached to it. However, in su?ciently high concentrations, acetylcholine will compete with the drug and dislodge it from the receptor; the e?ect of these drugs is reversed by giving an anticholinesterase, which allows the amount of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction to build up. These drugs have varying durations of action, but all are slower in onset and of longer duration than the depolarisers.... neuromuscular blockade

Neurone

The cell of a nerve responsible for transmission of the signal along the nerve fibre.... neurone

Neuropathies

A disease of the central or peripheral nervous systems. In more common reference, a neuropathy is primarily a disorder of peripheral nerves. CNS diseases are often life threatening; neuropathies are generally disorders of the control and sensory nerves out in the body.... neuropathies

Neurotic

A vague term applied to a person of nervous temperament, whose actions are largely determined by emotions or instincts rather than by reason.... neurotic

Neuron(e)

Also known as a nerve cell, this is the basic cellular building-block of the NERVOUS SYSTEM, which contains billions of neurones linked in a complex network and acting in di?erent combinations to keep the body informed about the outside world, and then to organise and activate appropriate responses. There are three main types of neurone:

Sensory These carry signals to the central nervous system (CNS) – the BRAIN and SPINAL CORD – from sensory receptors. These receptors respond to di?erent stimuli such as touch, pain, temperature, smells, sounds and light.

Motor These carry signals from the CNS to activate muscles or glands.

Interneurons These provide the interconnecting ‘electrical network’ within the CNS.

Structure Each neurone comprises a cell body, several branches called dendrites, and a single ?lamentous ?bre called an AXON. Axons may be anything from a few millimetres to a metre long; at their end are several branches acting as terminals through which electrochemical signals are sent to target cells, such as those of muscles, glands or the dendrites of another axon.

Axons of several neurones are grouped

together to form nerve tracts within the brain or spinal cord or nerve-?bres outside the CNS. Each nerve is surrounded by a sheath and contains bundles of ?bres. Some ?bres are medullated, having a sheath of MYELIN which acts as insulation, preventing nerve impulses from spreading beyond the ?bre conveying them.

The cellular part of the neurones makes up the grey matter of the brain and spinal cord – the former containing 600 million neurones. The dendrites meet with similar outgrowths from other neurones to form synapses. White matter is the term used for that part of the system composed of nerve ?bres.

Functions of nerves The greater part of the bodily activity originates in the nerve cells (see NERVE). Impulses are sent down the nerves which act simply as transmitters. The impulse causes sudden chemical changes in the muscles as the latter contract (see MUSCLE). The impulses from a sensory ending in the skin pass along a nerve-?bre to affect nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain, where they are perceived as a sensation. An impulse travels at a rate of about 30 metres (100 feet) per second. (See NERVOUS IMPULSE.)

The anterior roots of spinal nerves consist of motor ?bres leading to muscles, the posterior roots of sensory ?bres coming from the skin. The terms, EFFERENT and AFFERENT, are applied to these roots, because, in addition to motor ?bres, ?bres controlling blood vessels and secretory glands leave the cord in the anterior roots. The posterior roots contain, in addition to sensory ?bres, the nerve-?bres that transmit impulses from muscles, joints and other organs, which among other neurological functions provide the individual with his or her

proprioceptive faculties – the ability to know how various parts of the body are positioned.

The connection between the sensory and motor systems of nerves is important. The simplest form of nerve action is that known as automatic action. In this, a part of the nervous system, controlling, for example, the lungs, makes rhythmic discharges to maintain the regular action of the respiratory muscles. This controlling mechanism may be modi?ed by occasional sensory impressions and chemical changes from various sources.

Re?ex action This is an automatic or involuntary activity, prompted by fairly simple neurological circuits, without the subject’s consciousness necessarily being involved. Thus a painful pinprick will result in a re?ex withdrawal of the affected ?nger before the brain has time to send a ‘voluntary’ instruction to the muscles involved.

Voluntary Actions are more complicated than re?ex ones. The same mechanism is involved, but the brain initially exerts an inhibitory or blocking e?ect which prevents immediate re?ex action. Then the impulse, passing up to the cerebral hemispheres, stimulates cellular activity, the complexity of these processes depending upon the intellectual processes involved. Finally, the inhibition is removed and an impulse passes down to motor cells in the spinal cord, and a muscle or set of muscles is activated by the motor nerves. (Recent advances in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques have provided very clear images of nerve tracts in the brain which should lead to greater understanding of how the brain functions.) (See BRAIN; NERVOUS SYSTEM; SPINAL CORD.)... neuron(e)

Peripheral Neuritis

In?ammation of the nerves (see NERVE) in the outlying parts of the body. (See NEURITIS.)... peripheral neuritis

Asthenia, Neurocirculatory

See cardiac neurosis.... asthenia, neurocirculatory

Compensation Neurosis

A supposed psychological reaction to injury affected by the prospect of financial compensation. In some cases, the condition may delay physical recovery.... compensation neurosis

Neuralgia, Facial

 Trigeminal Neuralgia. Severe lancing pain along one or more branches of the fifth cranial nerve.

Causes include: dental problems, ill-fitting dentures, laughing, yawning, bad teeth.

Symptoms: nervous exhaustion, contracted pupils, flushed face.

Alternatives. Black Cohosh, Cactus, Celery seed, Bogbean, Chamomile, Lady’s Slipper, Ginseng, Hops, Jamaica Dogwood, White Willow, Wild Lettuce, Skullcap, St John’s Wort, Valerian.

Tea. Combine equal parts: Chamomile, Hops, Skullcap. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-10 minutes. 1 cup freely.

Decoction. Combine: Rosemary 2; Ladyslipper 1; Jamaica Dogwood 1.1 heaped teaspoon to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup every 2-3 hours.

Tablets. Passion flower. Ginseng. St John’s Wort, White Willow.

Formula. Equal parts: Jamaica Dogwood, Wild Lettuce, Valerian. Dose: Liquid extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Thrice daily.

Cayenne pepper (Capsicum). Frequently successful.

Practitioner. Tincture Gelsemium BPC (1973). Dose: 0.3ml (5 drops).

Topical. Poultice: Chamomile, Hops, Linseed or Bran. Acute cases (cold), chronic cases (hot). Grated or bruised Horseradish root. Evening Primrose oil. Hot cider vinegar. Tincture Arnica or Hypericum. Aromatherapy. 2 drops each: Juniper, Lavender, Chamomile to 2 teaspoons vegetable oil. Light massage. Diet, and supplements. Same as for general neuralgia. Australian researchers found that hot curries and spices actually trigger the trigeminal nerve causing a burning sensation. ... neuralgia, facial

Neuralgia, General

 Pain along a nerve, i.e. pain in the shoulders from pressure on a spinal nerve serving the neck.

Alternatives. Black Cohosh, Cactus, Chamomile, Lady’s Slipper, Ginseng, Hops, Jamaica Dogwood, White Willow, Wild Lettuce, Valerian.

Chamomile tea (mild analgesic).

Tablets/capsules. Any of the above.

Formula. Ginseng 4; Black Cohosh 2; Skullcap 2; Mistletoe 1; Motherwort 1. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Thrice daily. Children: see: DOSAGE. Cayenne pepper (Capsicum) sometimes successful.

Topical. Poultice: Chamomile, Hops, Linseed or Bran. Acute cases (cold), chronic cases (hot). Grated or bruised Horseradish root. Evening Primrose oil. Hot Cider vinegar, Tincture Arnica or Hypericum. Aromatherapy. 2 drops each: Juniper, Lavender, Chamomile to 2 teaspoons vegetable oil. Light massage. Diet. High protein. Calcium-rich foods.

Supplements. Vitamin B-complex, B6, B12, Niacin, Magnesium, Dolomite, Zinc.

See: FACIAL and INTERCOSTAL NEURALGIA; DYSMENORRHOEA (neuralgia of the womb). ANTISPASMODICS. ... neuralgia, general

Neuralgia, Intercostal

 Pain along a sensory nerve serving the chest, without loss of sensation and power of movement. Differs from neuritis in which nerves are inflamed.

Causes: all kinds of infective diseases. Rheumatism, bad teeth, bony spinal lesions, gall stone, liver disorder, thickening of pleura, fractured ribs, shingles – see: SHINGLES. In simple cases a cup of Chamomile tea may suffice. Persistent cases require one of the following alternatives.

Alternatives. Decoction. Combine equal parts: Black Cohosh, Jamaica Dogwood (or White Willow), Pleurisy root. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup thrice daily. Formula. Cramp bark 2; Black Cohosh 1; Valerian 1. Pinch of Cayenne or few drops Tincture Capsicum. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one- third teaspoon). Thrice daily.

Neuralgia associated with bronchi and lung: Formula: Cramp bark 2; Pleurisy root 2; Liquorice half. Dose: as above.

Practitioner. Tincture Gelsemium BPC (1973). 0.3ml (5 drops) in water as necessary.

Dr Finlay Ellingwood. Tincture Pleurisy root (Asclepias). 20 drops, every 2 hours.

Topical. Poultice: Chamomile, Hops, Linseed or Bran. Acute cases (cold), chronic cases (hot). Grated or bruised Horseradish root. Evening Primrose oil. Hot Cider vinegar. Tincture Arnica or Hypericum. Aromatherapy. 2 drops each: Juniper, Lavender, Chamomile, to 2 teaspoons vegetable oil. Massage. Diet, vitamins, minerals. Same as for general neuralgia. Cold water packs. ... neuralgia, intercostal

Neurocutaneous Disorders

A group of conditions characterized by abnormalities of the skin and of the nerves and/or the central nervous system.

The best known of these neurocutaneous disorders is neurofibromatosis, in which there are brown patches on the skin and numerous fibrous nodules on the skin and nerves. Another example is tuberous sclerosis, which is characterized by small skin-coloured swellings over the cheeks and nose, mental deficiency, and epilepsy.... neurocutaneous disorders

Neural Tube Defect

A developmental failure affecting the spinal cord or brain of the embryo. The most serious defect is anencephaly (total lack of a brain), which is fatal. More common is spina bifida, in which the vertebrae do not form a complete ring around the spinal cord. Spina bifida can occur anywhere on the spine, but it is most common in the lower back.

There are different forms of spina bifida. In spina bifida occulta, the only defect is a failure of the fusion of the bony arches behind the spinal cord, which may not cause any problems. When the bone defect is more extensive, there may be a meningocele, a protrusion of the meninges, or a myelomeningocele, a malformation of the spinal cord. Myelomeningocele is likely to cause severe handicap, with paralysis of the legs, loss of sensation in the lower body, hydrocephalus, and paralysis of the anus and bladder, causing incontinence. Associated problems include cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and mental handicap.

Surgery is usually performed a few days after birth. In mild cases, the defect can usually be corrected, but in myelomeningocele, some handicap will remain.

Genetic factors play a part in neural tube defects, which show multifactorial inheritance. Couples who have had an affected child or who have a family history of neural tube defects should seek genetic counselling. The risk of a neural tube defect occurring can be substantially reduced if the mother takes folic acid supplements for a month before conception and during the early part of the pregnancy.

Ultrasound scanning and amniocentesis allow accurate antenatal testing for neural tube defects.... neural tube defect

Neuroendocrinology

The study of the interactions between the nervous system and the endocrine system that control internal body functions and the body’s response to the external environment.... neuroendocrinology

Postherpetic Neuralgia

Burning pain caused by nerve irritation that occurs at the site of a previous attack of herpes zoster (shingles).

See neuralgia.... postherpetic neuralgia

Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder

(auditory neuropathy, auditory dyssynchrony) a form of hearing loss characterized by normal cochlear function as measured by *otoacoustic emissions or detection of *cochlear microphonics but abnormal or absent *middle ear reflexes and abnormal *auditory brainstem responses.... auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder

Neuropathic Joint

A joint that has been damaged by inflammation and a series of injuries, which pass unnoticed due to loss of sensation in the joint resulting from neuropathy (nerve damage caused by disease). Neuropathic joints develop in a number of conditions, including diabetes mellitus and untreated syphilis.

When sensation to pain is lost, abnormal stress and strain on a joint do not stimulate the protective reflex spasm of the surrounding muscles; this failure of the protective reflex allows exaggerated movement that can damage the joint. Osteoarthritis, swelling, and deformity are features of a neuropathic joint.An orthopaedic brace or caliper splint may be necessary to restrict any abnormal movement of the joint.

Occasionally, an arthrodesis (a surgical operation to fuse a joint) is performed.

The nerve damage is irreversible.... neuropathic joint

Diabetic Neuropathy

progressive damage to the peripheral nerves seen in some people with long-standing diabetes. It most commonly affects the legs, causing pain or numbness working up from the feet. There is no cure but drugs can sometimes be used to control the discomfort experienced, and good blood glucose control may prevent deterioration over time. See also diabetic holiday foot syndrome.... diabetic neuropathy

Motor Neuron

one of the units (*neurons) that goes to make up the nerve pathway between the brain and an effector organ, such as a skeletal muscle. An upper motor neuron has a cell body in the brain and an axon that extends into the spinal cord, where it ends in synapses. It is thus entirely within the central nervous system. A lower motor neuron, on the other hand, has a cell body in the spinal cord or brainstem and an axon that extends outwards in a cranial or spinal motor nerve to reach an effector.... motor neuron

Neural Arch

see vertebra.... neural arch

Neural Crest

the two bands of ectodermal tissue that flank the *neural plate of the early embryo. Cells of the neural crest migrate throughout the embryo and develop into sensory nerve cells and peripheral nerve cells of the autonomic nervous system.... neural crest

Neural Plate

the strip of ectoderm lying along the central axis of the early embryo that forms the *neural tube and subsequently the central nervous system.... neural plate

Neural Spine

the spinous process situated on the neural arch of a *vertebra.... neural spine

Neuraminidase

(NA, N) a glycoprotein projecting from the surface layer of the lipid bilayer envelope of *influenza virions. It attacks sialic acid residues on host cells and may be involved in virus release. It is a key target for antibody attack and therefore is important in vaccination.... neuraminidase

Neurectasis

n. the surgical procedure for stretching a peripheral nerve.... neurectasis

Neurilemmoma

(neurinoma) n. a benign slow-growing tumour that arises from the neurilemma of a nerve fibre.... neurilemmoma

Neurinoma

n. see neurilemmoma.... neurinoma

Neuroanatomy

n. the study of the structure of the nervous system, from the gross anatomy of the brain down to the microscopic details of neurons.... neuroanatomy

Neurobiotaxis

n. the predisposition of a nerve cell to move towards the source of its stimuli during development.... neurobiotaxis

Neuroblast

n. any of the nerve cells of the embryo that give rise to functional nerve cells (neurons).... neuroblast

Neurocardiogenic Syncope

(malignant vasovagal syndrome) recurrent loss of consciousness due to a drop in blood pressure mediated by *vasodilatation, *bradycardia, or a combination of the two. Attacks resemble a simple faint, but can be very disabling because they are much more frequent and severe. Treatment comprises increased fluid and salt intake together with training in postural manoeuvres that may prevent attacks. A variety of drug treatments is available, but these are commonly ineffective. Implantation of a permanent *pacemaker may be required if profound bradycardia is a feature.... neurocardiogenic syncope

Neurocranium

n. the part of the skull that encloses the brain.... neurocranium

Neuroendocrine System

the system of dual control of certain activities of the body by means of both nerves and circulating hormones. The functioning of the autonomic nervous system is particularly closely linked to that of the pituitary and adrenal glands. The system can give rise to neuroendocrine tumours (NETs), which have special structural features and often produce active hormones. See also neurohormone; neurosecretion.... neuroendocrine system

Neuroepithelioma

n. a malignant tumour of the retina of the eye. It is a form of *glioma and may spread into the brain if not treated early.... neuroepithelioma

Neuroepithelium

n. a type of epithelium associated with organs of special sense. It contains sensory nerve endings and is found in the retina, the membranous labyrinth of the inner ear, the mucous membrane lining the nasal cavity, and the taste buds. —neuroepithelial adj.... neuroepithelium

Neurofibril

n. one of the microscopic threads of cytoplasm found in the cell body of a *neuron and also in the *axoplasm of peripheral nerves.... neurofibril

Neurofibrillary Tangles

twisted filaments composed of an abnormal form of tau protein, which normally occurs in microtubules (structural elements) of cells. They are found in the brains of patients with *Alzheimer’s disease.... neurofibrillary tangles

Neurofibroma

n. a benign tumour growing from the fibrous coverings of a peripheral nerve: it arises from *Schwann cells, lacks a capsule (therefore it may incorporate nerve fibres), and is usually symptomless. When it develops from the sheath of a nerve root, it causes pain and may compress the spinal cord. A schwannoma is similar but encapsulated (sometimes the terms are used synonymously).... neurofibroma

Neurogenesis

n. the growth and development of nerve cells.... neurogenesis

Neurohormone

n. a hormone that is produced within specialized nerve cells and is secreted from the nerve endings into the circulation. Examples are the hormones oxytocin and vasopressin, produced within the nerve cells of the hypothalamus and released into the circulation in the posterior pituitary gland, and noradrenaline, released from *chromaffin tissue in the adrenal medulla.... neurohormone

Neurohumour

n. a *neurohormone or a *neurotransmitter.... neurohumour

Neurohypophysis

n. the posterior lobe of the *pituitary gland.... neurohypophysis

Neurolemma

n. see neurilemma.... neurolemma

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

a life-threatening syndrome seen after starting *antipsychotic medication. It is characterized by confusion, muscle rigidity, fever, pallor and sweating, urinary incontinence, and a high level of *creatine kinase. Its symptoms can appear similar to *catatonia. Treatment in a high-dependency unit with high-dose benzodiazepines and immediate cessation of antipsychotic drugs is usually indicated.... neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Neuromyelitis Optica

(Devic’s disease) a condition that resembles multiple sclerosis. The diagnosis is confirmed by the finding of the antiaquaparin-4 antibody (NMO IgG antibody). Typically there is a transverse *myelitis, producing paralysis and numbness of the legs and trunk below the inflamed spinal cord, and *retrobulbar (optic) neuritis affecting both optic nerves. The attacks of myelitis and optic neuritis may coincide or they may be separated by days or weeks. Recovery from the initial attack is often incomplete and severe relapses occur commonly unless treatment with immunosuppressive therapies is started.... neuromyelitis optica

Neuronophagia

n. the process whereby damaged or degenerating nerve cells finally disintegrate and are removed by scavenger cells (*phagocytes).... neuronophagia

Neuronoplasty

n. reconstructive surgery for damaged or severed peripheral nerves.... neuronoplasty

Neuropathic Arthritis

(Charcot’s joint) a condition leading to progressive destruction and deformity of weight-bearing joints, resulting from damage to the sensory nerves that supply them. Causes include diabetes mellitus (see diabetic neuropathy), *tabes dorsalis, *syringomyelia, leprosy, congenital insensitivity to pain, and other neurological problems. Patients develop an unstable painless swollen joint; treatment is focused on limitation of activity and bracing.... neuropathic arthritis

Neuropeptide Y

a peptide, related to *pancreatic polypeptide, that is found in the central and peripheral nervous systems (it is particularly abundant in the hypothalamus). It has a variety of actions, including stimulation of appetite, gastrointestinal regulation, reproduction, memory, circadian rhythms, and cardiovascular functioning.... neuropeptide y

Neurophysiology

n. the study of the complex chemical and physical changes that are associated with the activity of the nervous system.... neurophysiology

Neuropil

n. nerve tissue that is visible microscopically as a mass of interwoven and interconnected nerve endings, dendrites, and other neuron components, rather than an ordered array of axons.... neuropil

Neuroplasticity

(neural plasticity) n. the ability of the brain to develop new neurons and/or new synapses in response to stimulation and learning. Recent research shows that the brain retains its plasticity throughout life, more or less, depending on the person’s state of health, etc. Following injury to the brain, neuroplasticity may allow uninjured areas to take over the processes previously carried out by the injured areas.... neuroplasticity

Neuroretinitis

n. combined inflammation of the optic nerve and the retina.... neuroretinitis

Neurosecretion

n. any substance produced within, and secreted by, a nerve cell. Important examples are the hormone-releasing factors produced by the cells of the *hypothalamus and released into blood vessels of the pituitary gland, on which they act.... neurosecretion

Neuroticism

n. a dimension of personality derived from questionnaires and psychological tests. People with high scores in neuroticism are anxious and intense, emotionally unstable, and more prone to develop *neurosis.... neuroticism

Neurotmesis

n. the complete severance of a peripheral nerve, which is associated with degeneration of the nerve fibres distal to the point of severance and slow *nerve regeneration. Compare axonotmesis; neurapraxia.... neurotmesis

Neurotomy

n. the surgical procedure of severing a nerve.... neurotomy

Neurotoxic

adj. poisonous or harmful to nerve tissue and dental pulp cells. —neurotoxicity n.... neurotoxic

Neurotrophic

adj. relating to the growth and nutrition of neural tissue in the body.... neurotrophic

Neurotropic

adj. growing towards or having an affinity for neural tissue. The term may be applied to viruses, chemicals, or toxins.... neurotropic

Peripheral Neuropathy

(polyneuropathy, peripheral neuritis) any of a group of disorders affecting the sensory and/or motor nerves in the peripheral nervous system. They tend to start distally, in the fingers and toes, and progress proximally. Symptoms include pins and needles, stabbing pains and a numbness on the sensory side, and weakness of the muscles. The most common causes of peripheral neuropathy are diabetes, alcohol, certain drugs, and such infections as HIV; genetic causes of peripheral neuropathy include amyloidosis and *Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. The diagnosis may be established by neurophysiological tests, blood tests, and occasionally a nerve biopsy.... peripheral neuropathy

Vestibular Neuronitis

(vestibular neuritis) a condition characterized by the sudden onset of vertigo without hearing loss or other auditory symptoms (compare labyrinthitis). It generally lasts days to weeks and the cause is unknown.... vestibular neuronitis



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