Disorders of the Sensory System

Disorders of the Sensory
System
Objectives
review sensory pathways

review sensation transmitted via pathways

symptoms and signs of sensory lesions

physical examination for sensory signs

disorders of sensory system




Testing for primary sensation




Disorders of sensory system



Disorders of the Sensory System 1

, impaired conduction of physical stimulus to the receptors.
ie. stimulus generated but it is not conducted

impaired function of receptors

impaired function of sensory nerves

impaired or changed function of the central nervous system

does not always denote nervous system disorder eg. tingling
and numbness in hyperventilation




🧠 lesion involves a cut of the neuron, crushing of the
neuron, atrophy of the neuron, compression of the
neuron, infarction of the neuron




Symptoms and terminology

Paresthesias

tingling (pins and needles)

abnormal sensations perceived without an apparent
stimulus

dysesthesia

hyperesthesia

allodynia

hyperalgesia
hyperpathia



Issues that can lead to nerve damage

Endocrine and metabolic

diabetes mellitus - neuropathy occurs

high blood glucose level causes a wound to be unable to
heal and can lead to gangrene. this can also lead to



Disorders of the Sensory System 2