Vestibular impairment in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Otolaryngology
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a treatable autoimmune peripheral neuropathy.
• CIDP is typically associated with weakness and proprioceptive impairment, leading to balance issues.
• The role of vestibular impairment in CIDP-related imbalance has been less understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess semicircular canal vestibular function in patients with CIDP.
• To evaluate postural stability in CIDP patients using a comprehensive battery of tests.
• To determine the prevalence and characteristics of vestibular impairment in CIDP.

Main Methods:

• Video head impulse test (vHIT) to measure semicircular canal vestibular function.
• A battery of tests for postural stability, including modified Clinical Test of Sensory Integration and Balance, Berg Balance Scale, Dynamic Gait Index, Fall Efficiency Scale, and International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale.
• Study included 21 patients diagnosed with CIDP.

Main Results:

• Vestibular impairment was identified in 16 out of 21 CIDP patients.
• Impairment ranged from mild (affecting one canal) to severe (affecting all six canals).
• The severity of vestibular impairment did not correlate with the degree of postural imbalance or peripheral neuropathy severity.

Conclusions:

• Vestibular impairment is a common finding in CIDP patients.
• Vestibular dysfunction represents an additional challenge to balance in individuals with CIDP.
• Further investigation into vestibular function is warranted for comprehensive CIDP management.