EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF CHRONIC INFLAMMATORY DEMYELINATING POLYNEUROPATHY IN A REFERRAL HOSPITAL IN WESTERN PARANÁ, BRAZIL

Abstract

Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) is an autoimmune disease affecting the peripheral nerves, leading to progressive muscle weakness and sensory impairment. In Brazil, regional data on its prevalence and clinical profile remain scarce, hindering early diagnosis and appropriate management. This study aimed to describe the clinical and epidemiological profile of patients diagnosed with CIDP at a private hospital in western Paraná, Brazil, between 2020 and 2024. This descriptive and exploratory study employed quantitative and qualitative approaches based on the retrospective analysis of medical records. A total of 54 patients were identified, with most cases occurring between 50 and 70 years of age (57%) and a predominance of females (65%). The most frequent symptoms were progressive muscle weakness (89%), gait impairment (81%), and paresthesia (75%). In addition, 27% of the patients had a previous history of Guillain-Barré Syndrome, while 11% presented prior immune-mediated events. The findings highlight the importance of early diagnosis and continuous neurological follow-up to prevent sequelae and improve the management of this rare and heterogeneous disease.