Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (pronounced kroh-nik in-flam-muh-tawr-ee dee-my-uh-lih-ney-ting pol-ee-nur-op-uh-thee), often abbreviated as CIDP, is a rare neurological disorder characterized by progressive weakness and impaired sensory function in the legs and arms.
Etymology
The term is derived from the key features of the condition:
- Chronic - long-developing
- Inflammatory - pertaining to inflammation
- Demyelinating - referring to the damage to the myelin sheath that surrounds nerve fibers
- Polyneuropathy - a condition that affects multiple peripheral nerves
Symptoms
The symptoms of CIDP are gradual and progress over a period of eight weeks or longer. They include:
- Weakness in the arms and legs
- Numbness or decreased sensation
- Tingling or burning sensation
- Pain, often in the joints
- Loss of reflexes
- Fatigue
Causes
The exact cause of CIDP is unknown. However, it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves and damages the myelin sheath.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of CIDP involves a combination of clinical examination, nerve conduction studies, and sometimes nerve biopsy. Other tests such as blood tests, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be used.
Treatment
Treatment for CIDP includes corticosteroids, immunosuppressant drugs, plasma exchange (plasmapheresis), and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy. Physical therapy may also be recommended to improve muscle strength and function.
Related Terms
- Peripheral Neuropathy
- Myelin Sheath
- Autoimmune Disorders
- Plasmapheresis
- Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg) Therapy
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