🎯 Common Causes
Small Fiber Neuropathy can result from various underlying conditions. In some cases, the exact cause remains unknown (idiopathic SFN).
🍭 Metabolic Causes
Diabetes Mellitus
Most common cause - Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can damage small nerve fibers through high blood sugar levels.
- Affects up to 50% of diabetic patients
- Often the first sign of diabetic complications
- Can occur even with well-controlled diabetes
Prediabetes & Glucose Intolerance
Impaired glucose tolerance can cause SFN even before full diabetes develops.
Metabolic Syndrome
Combination of high blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol abnormalities.
🧬 Autoimmune & Inflammatory
Sjögren's Syndrome
Autoimmune condition affecting moisture-producing glands, commonly associated with SFN.
Sarcoidosis
Inflammatory disease that can affect multiple organs including the nervous system.
Celiac Disease
Gluten sensitivity can trigger nerve damage in susceptible individuals.
Lupus & Other Connective Tissue Disorders
Various autoimmune conditions can target small nerve fibers.
💊 Medications & Toxins
Chemotherapy Drugs
Certain cancer treatments can cause peripheral neuropathy:
- Taxanes (paclitaxel, docetaxel)
- Platinum compounds (cisplatin, oxaliplatin)
- Vinca alkaloids
- Bortezomib
Other Medications
- Statins (cholesterol medications)
- Certain antibiotics (metronidazole, fluoroquinolones)
- Antiretroviral drugs (HIV medications)
- Anti-seizure medications
Toxins & Substances
- Alcohol (chronic excessive use)
- Heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic)
- Industrial chemicals
- Vitamin B6 toxicity (excessive supplementation)
🧪 Nutritional Deficiencies
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Essential for nerve health; deficiency can cause irreversible nerve damage.
Other B Vitamins
- Thiamine (B1) - especially in alcoholism
- Folate deficiency
- Vitamin B6 deficiency (paradoxically, excess is also harmful)
Other Nutrients
- Vitamin E deficiency
- Copper deficiency
🧬 Genetic Factors
Hereditary Neuropathies
Genetic mutations affecting nerve function:
- Fabry disease
- Hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathies (HSAN)
- Tangier disease
🦠 Infections
Viral Infections
- HIV
- Hepatitis C
- Epstein-Barr virus
- Varicella-zoster virus
Other Infections
- Lyme disease
- Leprosy
❓ Idiopathic SFN
Up to 50% of SFN cases are idiopathic - meaning no underlying cause can be identified despite thorough investigation.
This doesn't mean the condition is less serious or treatable. Research continues to identify new potential causes and mechanisms.
🛡️ Prevention & Risk Reduction
Blood Sugar Control
Maintain healthy glucose levels through diet, exercise, and medication compliance.
Limit Alcohol
Moderate alcohol consumption to prevent alcohol-related nerve damage.
Nutrition
Ensure adequate intake of B vitamins and other nerve-supporting nutrients.
Medication Awareness
Discuss neuropathy risks with your doctor before starting new medications.