Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

What symptom is commonly associated with peripheral neuropathy?

1. Severe headaches

2. Muscle weakness

3. Loss of sensation in extremities

4. Fever

The correct answer is: Loss of sensation in extremities

Loss of sensation in extremities is a hallmark symptom of peripheral neuropathy. This condition occurs when there is damage to the peripheral nerves, which may arise from various causes such as diabetes, infections, and exposure to toxins. The peripheral nerves are responsible for transmitting sensory information from the body to the central nervous system. When these nerves are impaired, individuals may experience numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation, particularly in the hands and feet. This sensory loss can significantly affect daily activities and overall quality of life. The other symptoms listed, while potentially associated with various neurological conditions, are not specifically indicative of peripheral neuropathy. For instance, severe headaches are more commonly related to migraines or other types of cephalalgia. Muscle weakness can result from various neurological or muscular diseases but does not specifically point to peripheral neuropathy. Fever is generally associated with infections or inflammatory processes rather than nerve damage. Thus, the distinct symptom of loss of sensation in the extremities directly reflects the primary impact of peripheral nerve damage.