Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a long-term neurological condition that affects the nerves, often causing weakness, numbness, and trouble with balance or movement. Though the condition is rare, the Bioinfusion Center team in Farmington Hills, Michigan, led by Cindy Crosby, MSN, FNP, CCRN, CRNI, has the expertise to treat it with IV infusion therapy. If you suffer from symptoms of CIDP, book an evaluation today by calling or booking an appointment online today.

What is chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy?

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a rare neurological disorder that causes progressive weakness and impaired sensory function in the arms and legs. It’s considered an autoimmune condition, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks your body’s nerves. 

Specifically, CIDP targets the myelin sheath — the protective covering around your nerves — causing inflammation and damage that slows or blocks nerve signals. CIDP is the chronic counterpart to Guillain-Barré syndrome and develops over at least eight weeks or longer. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long-term nerve damage and disability.

What are the symptoms of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy?

CIDP symptoms tend to develop gradually and can vary from person to person. Common signs include:

• Gradual muscle weakness that typically begins in the legs and extends to the arms
• Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
• Loss of reflexes
• Fatigue or difficulty walking
• Poor coordination and balance
• Muscle aches or cramps

These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may worsen if left untreated. In some cases, CIDP can lead to significant mobility issues or the need for assistive devices.

What causes chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy?

The exact cause of CIDP isn’t known, but it’s believed to be triggered by a malfunction in the immune system. For reasons not fully understood, the immune system begins attacking the myelin sheath, leading to inflammation and nerve signal disruption. 

Some people may develop CIDP after an infection or in association with other autoimmune or systemic diseases. Genetics and environmental factors may also have an impact.

How does IV infusion therapy treat chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy?

One of the most effective treatments for CIDP is intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy. IVIG is a solution made from pooled antibodies collected from healthy donors. When infused into the bloodstream, these antibodies help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, preventing further nerve damage.

Your provider administers IVIG over several hours in their comfortable clinical setting and repeats the treatment on a regular schedule, depending on the severity of the condition. Some patients also receive corticosteroids or plasma exchange (plasmapheresis) as part of their treatment plan. 

Contact the Bioinfusion Center office to book an appointment to learn more. Call or use the online scheduling tool today.