RESUMO
Background: Neuropathic symptoms and signs are common in the elderly and are often considered normal fi ndings. However, symptomatic polyneuropathy may contribute to disability and falls in the elderly. The prevalence of peripheral neuropathy in the elderly in Malaysia has not been previously reported. The objective of this pilot study is to determine the frequency of symptomatic sensory polyneuropathy in a group of elderly subjects in the community and their possible associated factors. Methods: Cross sectional survey of subjects aged 65 years and above, carried out in an urban neighbourhood in Petaling Jaya. Using a standardised questionnaire, subjects were asked about sensory neuropathic symptoms, associated medical conditions and social habits. They were examined for the ankle refl ex, vibration, joint position, and pinprick sensations. Possible symptomatic sensory polyneuropathy was defi ned as bilateral distal neuropathic symptoms, loss of pinprick sensation and proprioception sense. Results: Of the 100 subjects, 63% had neuropathic symptoms and signs and 20% had possible symptomatic sensory polyneuropathy. Subjects with polyneuropathy complained of more postural instability and giddiness and distal weakness. Diabetes mellitus was associated with the presence of neuropathic symptoms and signs but not with polyneuropathy. Age was signifi cantly associated with polyneuropathy. Conclusion: The frequency of symptomatic sensory polyneuropathy in a group of elderly subj
