What defines neuropraxia in the context of nerve injury?

• A. Complete severance of axon and sheath
• B. Interruption in nerve impulse conduction
• C. Division of axon with intact sheath
• D. Regeneration of damaged nerves

Answer: (B)

Neuropraxia is characterized by an interruption in nerve impulse conduction, which is primarily due to demyelination of the nerve without any damage to the axon itself. This type of injury typically results from compression or stretching of a nerve, leading to a temporary blockage of nerve signals. The nerve retains its structural integrity, allowing for regeneration and recovery over a period of days to weeks, which distinguishes it from more severe types of nerve injuries such as axonotmesis or neurotmesis, where the nerve structure is significantly compromised.

In the context of this question, the definition correctly identifies that neuropraxia does not involve physical severing or division of the nerve fibers but instead refers to a functional loss in conduction that is often reversible. Thus, understanding neuropraxia as an interruption in nerve impulse conduction highlights its nature as a relatively mild and often recoverable nerve injury.