Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy

What is Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy?

About

An autoimmune disorder that causes the destruction of the myelin sheath surrounding the nerves resulting in inflammation and swelling of nerves.

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a type of acquired immune-mediated inflammatory disorder. It is not contagious, but it is chronic.(1)

- Medical diagnosis by a neurologist is required for confirmation.
- Affects both men and women.
- MRI, EMG, and NCV testing or lumbar puncture are required.
- It is physically discomforting.

The underlying causes of CIDP are unknown. As it resembles many autoimmune diseases, it has been categorized as an acquired autoimmune disorder. CIDP is closely related to Guillain-Barré syndrome and has some similarities with multiple sclerosis and multifocal motor neuropathy. CIDP is extremely rare with only 5-7 cases found per 100,000 individuals. The diagnosis of this disorder is very difficult.
Ages affected - There is no particular age group with higher susceptibility to CIDP, as it can affect any person regardless of their age or sex.

Symptoms

Self-diagnosable
Symptoms include gradual weakening of arms and legs, fatigue, numbness, tingling and prickling sensations, and slowed nerve responses.

People may experience
Neurological issues - Slowed sensory responses and loss of tendon reflexes (areflexia).
Physical discomfort - Weakness at proximal and distal parts of limbs, abnormal sensations such as tingling and numbness.

Treatment

Medications: Intravenous immunoglobulin is the first line of treatment. Corticosteroids can also be used under a doctors prescription.

Specialist - Treatments such as plasmapheresis or stem cell transplant can be done after consulting a specialist. At mfine, complete diagnosis is made for complete treatment. Contact today!