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Patient support groups also offer information about clinical trials.
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NINDS Disorders is an index of neurological conditions provided by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. This valuable tool offers detailed descriptions, facts on treatment and prognosis, and patient organization contact information for over 500 identified neurological disorders.
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.
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.
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.
Research
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.
View a list of studies currently seeking patients.
View more studies on this condition.
Organizations
American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association
National organization that works to alleviate suffering and the socioeconomic impact of autoimmunity. Dedicated to the eradication of autoimmune diseases through fostering and facilitating collaboration in the areas of education, research, and patient services.
22100 Gratiot Avenue
Eastpointe, MI 48021-2227
Tel: 586-776-3900
800-598-4668
Fax: 586-776-3903
GBS/CIDP Foundation International
Voluntary, nonprofit organization that provides support to patients with Guillain-Barré and their families, awards grants to researchers, and offers educational materials to the public and professional communities.
The Holly Building
104 1/2 Forrest Ave.
Narberth, PA 19072
Tel: 610-667-0131
866-224-3301
Fax: 610-667-7036
Neuropathy Association
The Neuropathy Association is the leading national nonprofit organization providing peripheral neuropathy patient support and education, advocating for patients' interests, and promoting critical research. We have 50,000 members and supporters, and a nationwide network of 135 support groups and 12 Neuropathy Centers of Excellence at prominent medical institutions.
60 East 42nd Street
Suite 942
Suite 942
New York, NY 10165-0999
Tel: 888-PN-FACTS (888-763-2287)
Fax: 212-692-0668