Which nerve injury involves temporary loss without disruption of axons and is typically the mildest form?

• A. Axonotmesis
• B. Neurotmesis
• C. Paresthesia
• D. Neuropraxia

Answer: (D)

This question tests understanding of nerve injury severity in Seddon's classification. Neuropraxia is the mildest form, involving a temporary loss of function due to a conduction block without disruption to the axon. The axon and connective tissue stay intact, so there is no Wallerian degeneration. Because the nerve fibers aren’t damaged, recovery is rapid and complete once the myelin sheath is remyelinated, usually within days to weeks.

In contrast, axonotmesis involves damage to the axon itself with preservation of surrounding connective tissue—leading to distal degeneration and slower, imperfect recovery as axons regrow. Neurotmesis is a complete nerve severance with poor spontaneous recovery unless surgical repair is performed. Paresthesia is a symptom (abnormal sensation) rather than a nerve injury type.