Clinical and Electrophysiologic Findings of Fatigue in Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) is a peripheral nerve disease with progressive or recurrent motor and sensory symptoms lasting over 2 months. The condition is autoimmune and is diagnosed through clinical, electrodiagnostic, and laboratory features. This narrative review aims to summarize the latest findings on fatigue in CIDP, including its prevalence, factors that influence its severity, origin, and management strategies. Until May 20th, 2023, the English medical literature was searched with the keywords: “CIDP,” and “fatigue.” Study design, patient group, clinical findings related to CIDP and fatigue, treatment, and current status information were extracted from each study. One reviewer conducted research and screening, and another conducted the review process. Studies in English, including original studies and case series involving a minimum of five patients, were included until May 20th, 2023. Fatigue is a common symptom in CIDP, although not specific to the disease, and profoundly impacts the patient’s quality of life. The mechanisms specific to fatigue in CIDP are still unknown. However, we suggest that fatigue is not solely a residual symptom and may be related to inflammatory conditions. Further research is needed, specifically on the central origin of fatigue. It is essential to analyze the novel treatment options for fatigue in CIDP because it is a significant contributing factor to morbidity.

Keywords

• chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy
• cidp
• fatigue