Steroids or IVIG for CIDP?

The comparative efficacy of steroids versus intravenous immunoglobulin in treating CIDP remains unclear.

The course of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) is either progressive or relapsing-remitting, but significant disability is common. Its presumed immune-mediated etiology has prompted treatment with immune suppressive and immune modulatory therapies; the efficacy of steroids, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) have all been demonstrated in randomized, controlled trials (RCTs). A paucity of data concerning the comparative effectiveness of steroids and IVIG has now prompted an RCT comparing monthly administration of IVIG (0.5 g/kg/day for 4 days) and intravenous methylprednisolone (0.5 g/day for 4 days). The primary outcome measure was the difference in the proportion of patients discontinuing…

Reviewing Author

Michael Benatar, MD, MS, PhD

Disclosures

Grant / Research supportNIH NeuroBioBank; ALS Association; NIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke; NIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences; FDA; Department of Defense

Editorial boardsCochrane Collaboration

Leadership positions in professional societiesMuscle Study Group Executive Committee

Michael Benatar, MD, MS, PhD

Disclosures

Editorial boardsCochrane Collaboration

Leadership positions in professional societiesMuscle Study Group Executive Committee