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Updated: Jul 20, 2026

Nerve Ultrasound Protocol to Detect Dysimmune Neuropathies
Published on: October 7, 2021
Clinical heterogeneity in mild chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Y A Rajabally1, S Jacob, R J Abbott
1Neuromuscular Clinic, Department of Neurology, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, UK. yusuf.rajabally@uhl-tr.nhs.uk
Abstract:
We describe the clinical presentation, progression and electrodiagnostic features of three patients with a mild form of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). The unusually mild but also variable clinical picture was a cause of diagnostic uncertainty in all, but CIDP was eventually confirmed by extensive electrophysiological studies in each case, as well as by histology in one. Cerebrospinal fluid protein was raised in only one patient. Two patients were treated by intravenous immunoglobulins and both improved. Awareness of the existence of this relatively benign form of CIDP in its various presentations is essential as it can be functionally disabling, progress to more severe symptomatology, and as patients may benefit from immunomodulatory therapy.
Insights
Mild chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) presents variably, causing diagnostic challenges. Early electrophysiological confirmation and potential treatment with intravenous immunoglobulins are crucial for managing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Clinical Electrophysiology
Background:
- Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is an autoimmune disorder affecting peripheral nerves.
- Mild variants of CIDP can present with subtle or atypical symptoms, complicating diagnosis.
Observation:
- Three patients presented with an unusually mild and variable clinical course of CIDP.
- Diagnostic uncertainty was present in all cases due to the non-specific presentation.
- Cerebrospinal fluid protein levels were elevated in only one patient.
Findings:
- Extensive electrophysiological studies confirmed CIDP in all three patients.
- Histological examination supported the diagnosis in one patient.
- Two patients treated with intravenous immunoglobulins showed significant clinical improvement.
Implications:
- Recognizing mild CIDP is essential for timely diagnosis and intervention.
- Early treatment may prevent progression to more severe neurological deficits.
- Immunomodulatory therapies, such as intravenous immunoglobulins, can be effective in managing mild CIDP.
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