Intro to Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP)

WHAT IS CIDP?

Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a rare disorder of the peripheral nerves characterized by gradually increasing sensory loss and weakness associated with loss of reflexes.

The number of new cases per year of CIDP is about 1–2 per 100,000 people, but as the disease can be present in a person for years prior to diagnosis, the prevalence reflecting the accumulation of cases over time may be as high as 9 per 100,000 in some areas.

CIDP is caused by damage to the covering of the nerves, called myelin. It can start at any age and is more frequent in men than women.

Many people with CIDP benefit with treatment. Although there is a wide spectrum of how severely people with CIDP can be affected, some with the condition require assistance to perform daily tasks. In the more severe cases, devices like wheelchairs or walkers may be needed for mobility. One of the goals of early diagnosis and proper treatment is to avoid this level of disability and to improve the long-term outlook.

Learn More, click here