What is chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP)?
CIDP is a neuromuscular disorder characterized by progressive weakness and impaired sensory function in the legs and arms. It is an autoimmune neuropathy usually caused by damage to the myelin sheath (the insulation covering the nerve and protecting the underlying nerve fibers) of the peripheral nerves.
The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania serves as one of 12 sites in the United Stated designated as a GBS/CIDP Center of Excellence by the GBS/CIDP Foundation International. Based on levels of expertise, available treatments, facilities, and research capabilities these medical centers have been designated as regional centers of excellence.
Signs and symptoms of CIDP
CIDP usually causes weakness and changes in sensation that get worse over weeks to months. Most people notice muscle weakness in both arms and legs, often making it hard to walk, climb stairs, or use their hands. Many people also feel numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in their feet and hands. Some people feel off-balance, tire easily, or have pain related to nerve damage. These symptoms most often affect both sides of the body.
What causes CIDP?
In CIDP, the immune system targets the myelin sheath, the protective coating around the nerves in the arms and legs. When myelin is damaged, nerve signals slow down or get blocked, leading to weakness and numbness. The exact reason the immune system begins this attack is not clear. CIDP may occur on its own, and in many cases doctors cannot find a specific trigger. CIDP is not contagious and is not usually inherited.
Diagnosing CIDP
Diagnosing neuromuscular illness can be a complex process. A broad range of diseases can affect nerves and muscles, and often produce similar symptoms, such as weakness and numbness. Penn’s Neuromuscular Disorders Program offers consultations and comprehensive neurodiagnostic studies to help with difficult diagnosis. A Penn neuromuscular specialist reviews the complete medical history, and performs a comprehensive neuromuscular examination, of each patient. When appropriate, our specialists use our technologically advanced neurodiagnostic facilities.
Treating CIDP
Effective treatments for CIDP include corticosteroids (such as prednisone) or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). Less commonly, plasma exchange (plasmapheresis) is used. These treatments may be prescribed alone or in combination with other immunosuppressant drugs. Physical therapy plays an important role in combination with the medical treatments. Physical therapy may help with improvement in muscle strength, as well as overall function and mobility.