Stocking-glove distribution describes sensory loss in which condition?

• A. Dermatomal distribution
• B. Central nervous system lesion
• C. Spinal cord compression
• D. Polyneuropathy

Answer: (D)

Stocking-glove distribution is the hallmark of a length-dependent polyneuropathy. The longest nerves in the body—the ones that reach the toes and fingertips—are affected first, so sensory loss starts distally in a symmetric pattern that resembles stockings and gloves. This pattern is typical in diabetic neuropathy, alcohol-related neuropathies, vitamin deficiencies, and other systemic polyneuropathies.

Dermatomal loss follows a single nerve root or spinal segment, producing a band-like or patchy distribution that does not spare the entire distal extremities in a symmetric fashion. A central nervous system lesion or spinal cord compression tends to produce deficits that do not map to distal symmetric patterns and often involve additional signs such as motor weakness, reflex changes, or signs of upper motor neuron involvement, rather than pure distal sensory loss.