What condition is suspected if a patient demonstrates a stocking-glove distribution of symptoms?

• A. Diabetic neuropathy
• B. Multiple sclerosis
• C. T4 syndrome
• D. Carpal tunnel syndrome

Answer: (C)

The stocking-glove distribution of symptoms is commonly associated with diabetic neuropathy, which often affects the distal extremities in a pattern resembling socks (stocking) and gloves, hence the term "stocking-glove" distribution. This pattern indicates that the sensory nerves are being impacted more severely in the distal regions of the limbs compared to the proximal regions.

In this scenario, diabetic neuropathy is characterized by various sensations, including numbness, tingling, and pain that begin at the feet and hands and progress proximally. This condition arises from chronic hyperglycemia resulting in nerve damage over time.

While multiple sclerosis can present with diverse neurological symptoms, it does not typically present with a stocking-glove distribution as a primary symptom. T4 syndrome primarily includes upper extremity symptoms, commonly presenting with pain and sensory changes in a pattern associated with T2 to T4 thoracic vertebrae involvement. Carpal tunnel syndrome, on the other hand, is localized to the median nerve at the wrist and does not present in a stocking-glove pattern.

Understanding the specific distribution of symptoms is crucial in diagnosing neurological conditions, where diabetic neuropathy patients might demonstrate symptoms matching the stocking-glove pattern due to systemic metabolic impacts on nerve fibers. This recognition is essential for