The commonest cause of Peripheral Neuropathy in developed countries is -

Correct option is D

Ans. (d) Diabetes Mellitus
Explanation:
Peripheral Neuropathy is a condition in which the peripheral nerves are damaged, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, burning pain, and muscle weakness, primarily in the hands and feet.
Why is Diabetes Mellitus the most common cause?
· Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy in developed countries.
· Diabetic neuropathy occurs due to chronic hyperglycemia, which leads to:
1. Microvascular damage (ischemia of nerves)
2. Oxidative stress and inflammation
3. Glycation of nerve proteins, causing nerve degeneration
· Up to 50% of diabetic patients develop neuropathy, making it the most common cause.
Why are the other options incorrect?
1. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) → (Incorrect Choice)
· RA can cause vasculitic neuropathy (nerve damage due to inflammation of blood vessels), but it is not the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy.
2. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) → (Incorrect Choice)
· SLE can lead to neuropathy due to autoimmune-mediated nerve damage, but it is less common than diabetes-related neuropathy.
3. Isoniazid (INH) → (Incorrect Choice)
· Isoniazid (used for tuberculosis treatment) can cause drug-induced neuropathy due to vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) deficiency, but this is not the most common cause in developed countries.
· It is preventable with pyridoxine supplementation.