Maryland Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy Attorneys

Standing Up for the Rights of CIDP Victims

Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy after receiving a flu vaccine? Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a rare, treatable neurological disorder that causes progressive weakness and impaired sensory function in the legs and arms. According to WebMD, as many as 40,000 people in the U.S. may have the condition, but it’s hard to know how exactly how many people have CIDP since it is so difficult to diagnose.

While much remains unknown about CIDP, some scientific studies have shown a possible connection between the disorder and influenza vaccinations. At Potter Burnett Law, our Maryland chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy lawyers possess the experience and determination to help you secure compensation to cover your CIDP related medical bills and other losses related to the disorder if you contracted it after receiving a flu vaccine. In the 1980s, the U.S. government established the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program to provide a means for individuals harmed by vaccines to obtain compensation. We can help you seek compensation under this program.

Call (301) 820-7820 or contact us online to book your free consultation with an attorney.

What Is Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy?

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a rare neurological disease characterized by progressive weakness and impaired sensory function in the legs and arms. Also called chronic relapsing polyneuropathy, it targets the body’s nerves which affects one’s ability to move and feel in certain areas.

CIDP is caused by damage to the myelin sheath—the fatty covering that covers and protects nerve fibers—of the body’s peripheral nerves. The onset of the disease is thought to be caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking and damaging the myelin sheath. CIDP is not believed to be inherited and is considered an “acquired disorder.” While it can affect individuals of any age or gender, it is most common in young adults and men.

CIDP can have a broad range of effects. Some people who contract CIDP may suffer a quick bout followed by a full recovery, while others may suffer multiple bouts with only a partial recovery in between relapses.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), CIDP is closely related to Guillain-Barre syndrome, and it is considered the acute disease’s chronic counterpart.

Symptoms of CIDP & How to Treat Them

CIDP can be difficult to identify, even more so due to its rarity and lack of general knowledge about the disease. For CIDP to be considered as a diagnosis, a patient must have symptoms for at least eight weeks.

Symptoms of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy aren’t the same for everyone but may include:

• Abnormal sensations, especially in the extremities
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Double vision (diplopia)
• Fatigue
• Loss of deep tendon reflexes (areflexia)
• Pain
• Tingling or numbness (beginning in the toes and fingers)
• Weakness of the arms and legs

Most people with CIDP require treatment, which fortunately can lead to a full recovery. Treatment methods vary from person to person but may include corticosteroids, immunosuppressant drugs, stem cell transplants, plasmapheresis (plasma exchange or PE), intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy, and physiotherapy to improve muscle strength, sensation, and mobility.

According to the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD), if left untreated, 30% of people with CIDP will progress to wheelchair dependence. Even with treatment, certain symptoms, such as numbness and weakness caused by nerve damage, may persist for the rest of your life.

Did You Get CIPD After Receiving a Vaccine?

While the majority of people who get vaccinated don't experience any adverse reactions, a very small percentage of individuals can experience neurological issues. We are here to stand up for those individuals and make things right. If you believe that you or a loved one has come down with CIDP after receiving an influenza vaccination, you may be entitled to compensation. Please reach out to us to learn more.

Contact Potter Burnett Law today to set up an appointment with one of our experienced lawyers. We look forward to helping you on the path to recovery!