Introduction Peripheral neuropathy encompasses a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by damage to the peripheral nervous system, leading to sensory, motor, or autonomic dysfunction. The clinical spectrum ranges from mild paresthesia to profound motor weakness and autonomic instability. Over the past century, advances in neurophysiology and imaging have refined diagnostic criteria, while therapeutic strategies have…
Introduction Definition and Overview Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, immune-mediated disorder characterized by demyelination and axonal injury within the central nervous system (CNS). Early manifestations often present as focal neurologic deficits that may recur, thereby complicating initial diagnosis. Recognition of these early symptoms is essential for timely therapeutic intervention and for minimizing long‑term disability….
Introduction Definition and Overview Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a selective loss of dopaminergic neurons within the substantia nigra pars compacta and the presence of intracytoplasmic Lewy bodies composed primarily of α‑synuclein. The clinical spectrum encompasses motor manifestations such as tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability, as well as a…
Introduction Definition and Overview Dementia is a progressive decline in cognitive function that interferes with daily activities and is not attributable to reversible causes. The term encompasses a heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative and vascular disorders that share common clinical features but differ in etiology, pathophysiology, and therapeutic response. An accurate classification of dementia subtypes is…
Introduction Definition and Overview Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the gradual loss of cognitive functions, particularly memory, language, and executive abilities. The early stages of AD are frequently identified through subtle neurological changes that precede overt dementia. These early signs, often manifesting as mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or specific deficits…
Introduction Definition and Overview Migraine is a recurrent primary headache disorder characterized by moderate to severe unilateral pain, often accompanied by nausea, photophobia, phonophobia, and, in some cases, aura. The International Classification of Headache Disorders delineates migraine into episodic and chronic forms, with episodic migraine occurring in less than 15 days per month and chronic…
Introduction Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is characterized by the progressive narrowing or occlusion of the epicardial coronary arteries, primarily due to atherosclerotic plaque accumulation. The clinical manifestations range from asymptomatic ischemia to acute coronary syndromes, including unstable angina and myocardial infarction. Understanding the spectrum of…
Introduction Heart failure (HF) is a progressive syndrome characterized by the inability of the myocardium to supply adequate cardiac output to satisfy the metabolic demands of the body. The clinical spectrum ranges from asymptomatic structural abnormalities to acute decompensated episodes that necessitate intensive care admission. Historically, the recognition of HF as a distinct clinical entity…
Introduction Definition and Overview Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a supraventricular tachyarrhythmia characterized by irregular atrial electrical activity and loss of effective atrial contraction. The atrial rate often exceeds 350 beats per minute, while the ventricular response becomes irregularly irregular, reflecting the chaotic conduction through the atrioventricular node. The clinical presentation ranges from asymptomatic to debilitating…
Introduction Definition and Overview The FAST method represents a mnemonic framework employed to facilitate rapid identification of clinical manifestations associated with acute cerebrovascular events. FAST stands for Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time, encapsulating key neurological deficits that arise when arterial supply to the brain is compromised. The method has been integrated into…