Hereditary peripheral neuropathies of childhood

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to assist neurologists, paediatricians and other interested readers in following the expanding volume of information relating to the hereditary peripheral neuropathies of childhood. RECENT FINDINGS: During the last year, an exciting new potential therapy for hereditary sensory and motor neuropathy has been reported, and there has been a rapid expansion in our understanding of the genetic basis of a number of dominantly and recessively inherited neuropathies of childhood, most particularly in forms with pure motor or sensory and autonomic involvement. SUMMARY: Advances in our understanding of the molecular basis of the inherited neuropathies of childhood may provide greater insight into the pathogenesis of these disorders, hopefully identifying new therapeutic strategies for these lifelong conditions.