Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP)
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What is Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP)?Is there any treatment?What is the prognosis?What research is being done?OrganizationsPublicaciones en EspañolWhat is Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP)?
Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a neurological disorder characterized by progressive weakness
and impaired sensory function in the legs and arms. The disorder, which is sometimes called chronic relapsing polyneuropathy,
is caused by damage to the myelin sheath (the fatty covering that wraps around and protects nerve fibers) of the peripheral
nerves. Although it can occur at any age and in both genders, CIDP is more common in young adults, and in men more so than
women. It often presents with symptoms that include tingling or numbness (beginning 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 it is considered the chronic counterpart of that acute disease.
Is there any treatment?
Treatment for CIDP includes corticosteroids such as prednisone, which may be prescribed alone or in combination with immunosuppressant
drugs. Plasmapheresis (plasma exchange) and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy are effective. IVIg may be used even
as a first-line therapy. Physiotherapy may improve muscle strength, function and mobility, and minimize the shrinkage of muscles
and tendons and distortions of the joints.
What is the prognosis?
The course of CIDP varies widely among individuals. Some may have a bout of CIDP followed by spontaneous recovery, while others
may have many bouts with partial recovery in between relapses. The disease is a treatable cause of acquired neuropathy and
initiation of early treatment to prevent loss of nerve axons is recommended. However, some individuals are left with some
residual numbness or weakness.
What research is being done?
The NINDS supports a broad program of research on disorders of the nervous system, including CIDP. Much of this research is
aimed at increasing the understanding of these disorders and finding ways to prevent, treat, and cure them.
Select this link
to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.
Organizations
Publicaciones en Español
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El Síndrome de Guillain-BarréInformación del Sindrome de Guillain-Barre/Spanish-language information on Guillain-Barre Syndrome compiled by the National
Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).
Prepared by:
Office of Communications and Public Liaison
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892
NINDS health-related material is provided for information purposes only and does not necessarily represent endorsement by
or an official position of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke or any other Federal agency. Advice
on the treatment or care of an individual patient should be obtained through consultation with a physician who has examined
that patient or is familiar with that patient's medical history.
All NINDS-prepared information is in the public domain and may be freely copied. Credit to the NINDS or the NIH is appreciated.
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Last updated July 27, 2007
