Antibiotics for the neurological complications of Lyme disease
Abstract Background Various central nervous system-penetrant antibiotics are bactericidal in vitro and in vivo against the causative agent of Lyme neuroborreliosis (LNB), Borrelia burgdorferi. These antibiotics are routinely used clinically to treat LNB, but their relative efficacy is not clear. Objectives To assess the effects of antibiotics for the treatment of LNB. Search methods On […]
Treatment for ulnar neuropathy at the elbow
Abstract Background Ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE) is the second most common entrapment neuropathy after carpal tunnel syndrome. Treatment may be conservative or surgical, but optimal management remains controversial. This is an update of a review first published in 2010 and previously updated in 2012. Objectives To determine the effectiveness and safety of conservative […]
Corticosteroids for Guillain -Barré syndrome
Abstract Background Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS) is an acute paralysing disease caused by inflammation of the peripheral nerves, which corticosteroids would be expected to benefit. Objectives To examine the ability of corticosteroids to hasten recovery and reduce the long‐term morbidity from GBS. Search methods On 12 January 2016, we searched the Cochrane Neuromuscular Specialised Register, the […]
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation for muscle weakness in adults with advanced disease
Abstract Background This review is an update of a previously published review in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Issue 1, 2013 on Neuromuscular electrical stimulation for muscle weakness in adults with advanced disease. Patients with advanced progressive disease often experience muscle weakness, which can impact adversely on their ability to be independent and their […]
Fentanyl for neuropathic pain in adults
Abstract Background Opioid drugs, including fentanyl, are commonly used to treat neuropathic pain, and are considered effective by some professionals. Most reviews have examined all opioids together. This review sought evidence specifically for fentanyl, at any dose, and by any route of administration. Other opioids are considered in separate reviews. Objectives To assess the analgesic […]
Immunotherapy for IgM anti-myelin-associated glycoprotein paraprotein-associated peripheral neuropathies
Abstract Background Serum monoclonal anti‐myelin‐associated glycoprotein (anti‐MAG) antibodies may be pathogenic in some people with immunoglobulin M (IgM) paraprotein and demyelinating neuropathy. Immunotherapies aimed at reducing the level of these antibodies might be expected to be beneficial. This is an update of a review first published in 2003 and previously updated in 2006 and 2012. […]
Corticosteroids for Bell’s palsy (idiopathic facial paralysis)
Abstract Background Inflammation and oedema of the facial nerve are implicated in causing Bell’s palsy. Corticosteroids have a potent anti‐inflammatory action that should minimise nerve damage. This is an update of a review first published in 2002 and last updated in 2010. Objectives To determine the effectiveness and safety of corticosteroid therapy in people with […]
Corticosteroids for treating nerve damage in leprosy
Abstract Background Leprosy causes nerve damage that can result in nerve function impairment and disability. Corticosteroids are commonly used for treating nerve damage, although their long‐term effect is uncertain. This is an update of a review first published in 2007, and previously updated in 2009 and 2011. Objectives To assess the effects of corticosteroids on […]
Corticosteroids for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Abstract Background Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most common muscular dystrophy of childhood. Untreated, this incurable disease, which has an X-linked recessive inheritance, is characterised by muscle wasting and loss of walking ability, leading to complete wheelchair dependence by 13 years of age. Prolongation of walking is a major aim of treatment. Evidence from […]
Physiotherapy for pain and disability in adults with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) types I and II
Abstract Background Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a painful and disabling condition that usually manifests in response to trauma or surgery. When it occurs, it is associated with significant pain and disability. It is thought to arise and persist as a consequence of a maladaptive pro-inflammatory response and disturbances in sympathetically-mediated vasomotor control, together […]