Treatment of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy.

OPINION STATEMENT: Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is an acquired, immune-mediated, non-length-dependent polyradiculoneuropathy that is progressive or relapsing over a period of at least 8 weeks, often evolving over time to a relatively symmetric pattern. Although the exact pathogenesis is unclear, it is thought to be mediated by both cellular and humoral reaction to the peripheral nerve myelin sheath involving nerve roots and proximal and distal nerves. Early medical treatment of CIDP is important to prevent axonal loss occurring as a secondary effect of progressive demyelination. Only three treatments for CIDP have demonstrated benefit in randomized controlled studies: corticosteroids, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin. About 25% of patients fail to respond to these treatments or respond inadequately. These treatments have similar efficacy but differ significantly in cost and adverse effects. These factors are considered in treatment selection.