Abstract
Dysfunction of the immune system can result in damage of the peripheral nervous system. The immunological mechanisms, which include macrophage infiltration, inflammation and proliferation of Schwann cells, result in variable degrees of demyelination and axonal degeneration. Aetiology is diverse and, in some cases, may be precipitated by infection. Several immune-mediated peripheral neuropathies have been described including acute and chronic inflammatory polyradiculoneuropathies, multifocal motor neuropathy with conduction block, Lewis–Sumner syndrome (multifocal acquired demyelinating sensory and motor neuropathy) paraneoplastic neuropathies. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment help limit irreversible damage to the peripheral nervous system.
