Peripheral: Beyond (in this case, beyond the brain and the spinal cord.) Neuro-: Related to the nerves. -pathy: Disease. Peripheral neuropathy refers to the conditions that result when nerves that carry messages to and from the brain and spinal cord from and to the rest of the body are damaged or diseased. The peripheral nerves make up an intricate network that connects the brain and spinal cord to the muscles, skin, and internal organs.