Axonal channelopathies

Abstract
Abnormalities of peripheral nerve Na sup + and K sup + channels result in clinical manifestions unrelated to axonal degeneration or demyelination.Na sup + channel blockade causes weakness and sensory loss associated with slowed conduction and decreased motor and sensory action potential amplitudes. K sup + channel abnormalities result in high frequency repetitive action potentials (e.g., myokymia). Ion channel abnormalities may also play an important role in electrophysiologic changes seen in demyelinating disorders. NEUROLOGY 1996;47: 18-21