Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP)
- Article
- 2021-03-07
Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a neurological condition characterized by progressive weakness and decreased sensory function in the legs and arms. The condition, sometimes called chronic recurrent polyneuropathy, is caused by damage to the myelin sheath (the fatty layer that wraps around and protects nerve fibers) of the peripheral nerves. Although it can occur at any age and in both sexes, CIDP is more common in young adults, and more common in men than in women. It often shows symptoms such as tingling or numbness (starting in the toes and fingers), weakness of the arms and legs, loss of deep tendon reflexes (areflexia), fatigue and abnormal sensations. CIDP is closely related to Guillain-Barre syndrome and is considered the chronic counterpart of that acute illness.
Therapy
Treatment for CIDP includes corticosteroids such as prednisone, which can be prescribed alone or in combination with immunosuppressants. Plasmapheresis (plasma exchange) and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy are effective. IVIg can even be used as a first-line treatment. Physical therapy can improve muscle strength, function and mobility and minimize muscle and tendon shrinkage and joint deformity.
Prognosis
The course of CIDP varies greatly from person to person. Some may have an attack of CIDP followed by spontaneous recovery, while others may have many attacks with partial recovery in between relapses. The disease is a treatable cause of acquired neuropathy and early treatment is recommended to prevent loss of nerve axons. However, some people are left with some residual numbness or weakness.
Did you not find what you were looking for? Search further in the
