Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a rare disorder of the peripheral nerves characterized by gradually increasing sensory loss and weakness associated with loss of reflexes.
The number of new cases per year of CIDP is about 1-2 per 100,000 people, but as the disease can be present in a person for years prior to diagnosis, the prevalence reflecting the accumulation of cases over time may be as high as 9 per 100,000 in some areas.
CIDP is caused by damage to the covering of the nerves, called myelin. It can start at any age and is more frequent in men than women.
CIDP is not self-limiting or spontaneous. Left untreated, 30% of CIDP patients will progress to wheelchair dependence. Early recognition and proper treatment can avoid a significant amount of disability.