What is Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP)?
CIDP is a neurological disorder characterized by gradually (over months or years) increasing weakness of the legs and arms. It is caused by damage to the protective covering of the nerves, called myelin. Symptoms are variable and may be mild to debilitating.
How is it diagnosed?
A patient with CIDP typically presents with difficulty walking which progressively worsens over months to years. Weakness, tingling or other abnormal sensations may also be experienced, and usually begin in the fingers or toes (on both sides of the body). Physical examination will usually show loss of reflexes, such as the knee and ankle jerk. Evaluation by a neurologist will often include an electrical test, a nerve conduction velocity-electromyography study. Your doctor may obtain blood and urine tests, including analysis of proteins. CIDP is usually a chronic condition, which means that it may require long-term treatment.
How is it treated?
Several treatment options are available. These include steroids, plasmapheresis and intravenous immune globulin (IVIG). The goals of treatment are to stop further damage to the myelin, prevent damage to the nerve fibers (axons), alleviate symptoms and prevent relapse and, if possible, create an environment that allows the myelin to regenerate.
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Myasthenia Gravis
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CIDP
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a neurological disorder characterized by gradually (over months or years) increasing weakness of the legs and arms. It is caused by damage to the protective covering of the nerves, called myelin. Symptoms are variable and may be mild to debilitating.
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