Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a neurological disease that can cause serious symptoms like loss of sensation and mobility. At The Neurology Institute in Coral Springs and Sunrise, Florida, the multispecialty group of experts offers complete neurological care for CIDP, from diagnosis to treatment. Call the office nearest you or use the provided online scheduling link to make your appointment now.
CIDP is a neurological disease in which the immune system destroys the myelin sheaths that cover and protect nerve fibers. This can disrupt nerve signaling, leading to motor function and sensory issues.
The disease is far more common in men but can also affect women. The average age at the time of CIDP diagnosis is 50.
CIDP is related to Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). GBS is an acute disease, with a sudden onset, while CIDP develops more slowly.
CIDP symptoms mainly affect the limbs (arms and legs). Although symptoms can vary, common issues include:
CIDP normally affects both sides of the body equally. Some people experience a steady worsening of symptoms over time, while others have a recurrent form of the disease with flare-ups that come and go.
CIDP generally won’t improve long-term without a diagnosis and treatment that targets the disease. If you’re having symptoms, it’s important to seek medical care immediately, as this can help protect your nerves and prevent further myelin sheath destruction.
There’s no single test to detect CIDP, but The Neurology Institute uses a variety of approaches to check for myelin sheath damage and rule out other issues.
Along with a complete neurological exam, medical history, and symptom review, you generally need lab tests, an electromyogram (EMG), and nerve conduction testing.
You may also need tests like MRI to evaluate your nerve roots, a lumbar puncture to look for high spinal fluid protein levels, or a nerve biopsy to check for nerve damage.
CIDP treatment usually starts with corticosteroids such as prednisone. This medication calms inflammation and may relieve symptoms on its own.
Other treatment options include intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), which improves immune system function, and plasma exchange, which removes some parts of the immune response from your blood. Both can work alongside corticosteroids.
Regardless of which medical approach you use, physical and occupational therapy can be beneficial. Both therapies can help you build strength, function better, and improve your mobility.
For help with CIDP, call The Neurology Institute office nearest you or click the online booking link now.