Hereditary neuropathy with pressure palsies (HNPP)
Introduction
Hereditary neuropathy with pressure palsies (HNPP) is an inherited nerve disorder that typically causes numbness, tingling and muscle weakness.
It affects one or more of the peripheral nerves, which connect the brain and spinal cord to the muscles and to the sensory cells that detect touch, pain and temperature.
HNPP is thought toaffect between 1 in 50,000 and 1 in 20,000 people in the UK.Other terms for it are "entrapment neuropathy" and "compression neuropathy".
It is just one ofmanyinherited conditions that damage the peripheral nerves, which arecollectively knownas Peroneal muscular atrophy .
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 27 Jun 2016
Introduction
Hereditary neuropathy with pressure palsies (HNPP) is an inherited nerve disorder that typically causes numbness, tingling and muscle weakness.
What are the symptoms of HNPP?
HNPPranges in severity some people get no symptoms at all or find it a minor nuisance, while others are so badly affected they can't even move the affected limb. Most people with HNPP have attacks o
What's the cause?
We needtwo PMP22 genes, one from each parent, for the normal development of the peripheral nerves.These genesprovide instructions for the creation of PMP22 protein, whichmakes uptheprotective outer la
How is it diagnosed?
A diagnosis of HNPP is based on symptoms(such asrecurrent loss of sensation in one particular area), evidence of a family history and electrical nerve tests. A genetic test will confirm the diagnosis.
How is it managed?
There's currently no cure for HNPP, but some of the symptoms can be treated, and lifestyle changes can make a huge difference. Lifestyle advice Ifyou can feel anywarning signs (such as tingling),sto
More information and support
HNPP.org HNPP UK Hereditary Neuropathy Foundation CMT UK
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