From the Research
The incidence of Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) is approximately 0.68 per 100,000 person-years, with a prevalence of about 7.00 per 100,000 individuals, as reported in the most recent and highest quality study 1. CIDP is considered a rare neurological disorder that affects the peripheral nerves, causing progressive weakness and impaired sensory function in the arms and legs. The condition typically affects adults more than children, with the average age of onset being between 40 and 60 years. Men are slightly more affected than women, with a higher incidence rate compared to women (IRR 3.00,95% CI 1.27-7.11) 1. The incidence may be underestimated due to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis, as CIDP can sometimes be confused with other neurological conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome or multiple sclerosis. CIDP is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath covering peripheral nerves, disrupting normal nerve signal transmission. This explains the progressive nature of the symptoms and why immunomodulatory treatments are the mainstay of therapy for this condition. Some key points to consider in the diagnosis and management of CIDP include:
- The importance of early diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term disability and improve quality of life 1
- The use of immunomodulatory therapies such as corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, and plasma exchange to reduce inflammation and slow disease progression 2
- The need for ongoing monitoring and adjustment of treatment to optimize outcomes and minimize adverse effects 2
- The potential for CIDP to be associated with other autoimmune disorders, such as diabetes mellitus, although the evidence for this association is not strong 3. Overall, the diagnosis and management of CIDP require a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach, taking into account the latest evidence and guidelines to optimize outcomes and improve quality of life for affected individuals.