What is CIDP?
CIDP (Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy) is a rare disorder of the peripheral nerves characterized by gradually increasing weakness of the legs and, to a lesser extent, the arms.
It is the gradual onset as well as the chronic nature of CIDP that differentiates it from GBS. Fortunately, CIDP is even more rare than GBS. The incidence of new cases is estimated to be between 1.5 and 3.6 in a million people (compare to GBS: 1-2 in 100,000).
Like GBS, CIDP is caused by damage to the covering of the nerves, called myelin. It can start at any age and in both genders. Weakness occurs over two or more months.
Unlike GBS, CIDP is not self-limiting (with an end to the acute phase). Left untreated, 30% of CIDP patients will progress to wheelchair dependence. Early recognition and treatment can avoid a significant amount of disability.
It is the gradual onset as well as the chronic nature of CIDP that differentiates it from GBS. Fortunately, CIDP is even more rare than GBS. The incidence of new cases is estimated to be between 1.5 and 3.6 in a million people (compare to GBS: 1-2 in 100,000).
Like GBS, CIDP is caused by damage to the covering of the nerves, called myelin. It can start at any age and in both genders. Weakness occurs over two or more months.
Unlike GBS, CIDP is not self-limiting (with an end to the acute phase). Left untreated, 30% of CIDP patients will progress to wheelchair dependence. Early recognition and treatment can avoid a significant amount of disability.
Are there different types?
Variants
There are three general forms of CIDP:
There are three general forms of CIDP:
- Progressive form extending over several years
- Recurrent form with multiple episodes that may be separated by months or years
- Monophasic form in which a single episode extends over one to three years without recurrence
Is CIDP contagious or hereditary?
There is no research to support that GBS or CIDP is contagious or hereditary.