Questions posted in the Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

Subject: Re: Demyelinating Neuropathy
Forum: The Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum
Topic Area:
Posted by CCF Neuro MD *!* on November 18, 1997 at 15:42:42:
In Reply to: Demyelinating Neuropathy posted by Rick Wooten on November 04, 1997 at 05:02:19:


: I have been diagnosed as having Demyelinating Neuropathy.
I have terrible pain and weakness in all extremeties,
although the left side seems to be a little worse.
A spinal tap about 10 months ago was inconclusive.

I can't seem to find much info on this condition.
Can you tell me what it is, and what I might be facing?

I have also been diagnosed as having Fibromyalgia.
Is there any connection between the two conditions?

Thank you very much for your time,
Rick Wooten



Demyelinating neuropathy is a broad term which covers a number if distinct conditions all of which are associated with breakdown of myelin , a sort of insulating coat which covers nerves and helps them to conduct the impulses which control sensation and movement .
This is usually caused by the immune system attacking the myelin and causing its breakdown. While an underlying cause is frequently impossible to find there may be an association with certain blood disorders and these should be excluded by having a blood test known as a monoclonal protein screen.
As regards treatment , there are forms of treatment available, the most effective of the first line treatments being intravenous immunoglobulin therapy, which is used in the variant known as CIDP, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. This treatment is given by IV Infusion either continuously over 48 hours or in shorter infusions over 5 days.
The treatment is not effective in all cases but a majority of patients do experience some relief of symptoms.

This information is provided for general medical education purposes only.
Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options of your specific medical condition.


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