Diagnosis
The diagnosis of polyneuropathies begins with a history and physical examination to ascertain the pattern of the disease process (such as-arms, legs, distal, proximal) if they fluctuate, and what deficits and pain are involved. If pain is a factor, determining where and how long the pain has been present is important, one also needs to know what disorders are present within the family and what diseases the person may have. Although diseases often are suggested by the physical examination and history alone, tests that may be employed include: electrodiagnostic testing, serum protein electrophoresis, nerve conduction studies, urinalysis, serum creatine kinase (CK) and antibody testing (nerve biopsy is sometimes done).Other tests may be used, especially tests for specific disorders associated with polyneuropathies, quality measures have been developed to diagnose patients with distal symmetrical polyneuropathy (DSP). Differential diagnosis
In terms of the differential diagnosis for polyneuropathy one must look at the following:

Treatment
In the treatment of polyneuropathies one must ascertain and manage the cause, among management activities are: weight decrease, use of a walking aid, and occupational therapist assistance. Additionally, BP control in those with diabetes is helpful, while intravenous immunoglobulin is used for multifocal motor neuropathy.According to Lopate, et al., methylprednisolone is a viable treatment for chronic inflammatory demyelinative polyneuropathy (which can also be treated with intravenous immunoglobulin).
The authors also indicate that prednisone has greater adverse effects in such treatment, as opposed to intermittent (high-doses) of the aforementioned medication.According to Wu, et al., in critical illness polyneuropathy supportive and preventive therapy are important for the affected individual, as well as, avoiding (or limiting) corticosteroids. See also
References
Further reading
Dimachkie, Mazen M.; Barohn, Richard J. (7 April 2013). "Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy". Current Treatment Options in Neurology. 15 (3): 350–366. doi:10.1007/s11940-013-0229-6. ISSN 1092-8480. PMC 3987657. PMID 23564314. Katirji, Bashar; Kaminski, Henry J.; Ruff, Robert L. (2013-10-11). Neuromuscular Disorders in Clinical Practice. Springer Science & Business Media. ISBN 9781461465676. Retrieved 26 August 2016. Said, Professor Gérard (2014). Peripheral Neuropathy & Neuropathic Pain: Into The Light. tfm Publishing Limited. p. 17. ISBN 9781910079027. Retrieved 3 August 2016. == External links ==