[Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. Report of six cases]

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy is a heterogeneous disease characterized by symmetrical motor and sensitive alterations, absence of tendon reflexes and increased cerebrospinal fluid protein levels. We report 6 patients with the disease, (three males) aged 41 to 70 years old. Four had the classical presentation and two had an asymmetrical paresis, that predominated in superior limbs. These patients had a proximal block with scarce prolongation of distal nerve conduction velocity. In all patients, underlying illnesses were discarded with a full diagnostic work up. Subjects were followed from 2 to 14 months after the diagnosis. In all, treatment with steroids improved muscle strength and sensitivity.