CIDP Diagnosis & Treatment in San Antonio

Prompt Testing to Diagnose CIDP

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a is an autoimmune neurological disorder that targets the nerves of the body. At Neuromuscular and EMG Specialists of Texas, we offer diagnosis and treatment of CIDP in San Antonio. Our doctor pays attention to both the small details and the bigger picture to ensure that every patient receives exceptional, comprehensive care.

Diagnosing CIDP

Although we do not know why people contract CIDP, we do know that it is caused by inflammation of the nerves. This inflammation destroys the nerves’ protective covering, or myelin, which reduces the nerves’ ability to send signals. CIDP can occur at any age but tends to be more common in older adults. More men contract CIDP than women.

The symptoms of CIDP can best be described as a progressive neuropathy that occurs over weeks to months. Patients can go from walking to a wheelchair within a few weeks’ or months’ time. This is in contrast to more common types of neuropathy (such as diabetic neuropathy) in which symptoms occur slowly over years to decades.

Generally, CIDP may be investigated as a possible cause when the symptoms persist for eight weeks or longer. In some people, symptoms may disappear only to come back again.

CIDP is a particularly difficult condition to diagnose. Though there is no single test to diagnose CIDP, a variety of tests may be conducted to investigate what is happening to a patient’s nerves and to rule out other possible causes of symptoms. Dr. Wong has extensive training and has helped countless patients receive the treatment they need after being diagnosed with CIDP in San Antonio.

Early CIDP Treatment is Key

Treatment for CIDP may include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, intravenous immunoglobulin, immunotherapy, plasma exchange, and stem cell transplants, in rare cases. Some people have a complete recovery, while others may continue to experience the effects of nerve damage, such as weakness and numbness. Early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve nerve function.