HSAN1, previously known as HSN1, stands for Hereditary Sensory and Autonomic Neuropathy Type 1. HSAN1 is a little-known, peripheral neuropathy characterized by severe sensory loss (ie. temperature, pressure, pain) starting in the extremities, usually in the feet first. This sensory loss often leads to:
- Painless injuries
- Chronic skin ulcers that have difficulty healing
- Progressive destruction of underlying bones
- Bone infections
- Chronic shooting pains in the extremities
- Muscle wasting
- Amputation of fingers or toes
- Eventual motor impairment
HSAN1 is a dominantly inherited disease, meaning that a child of an affected parent has a 50/50 chance of also getting the disease. HSAN1 is an adult onset disease, with symptoms typically becoming present by the late teens or second decade of life. Although HSAN1 is not a terminal disease, it is a progressively debilitating disease, and many affected patients often require surgeries or the use of walking aids, such as canes, braces, or wheelchairs.
Simplified Explanation About HSAN1 (by Tami Newcomer Murphy) – Updated 1/10/2021