P.063 Refractory pediatric CIDP converting to full recovery with rituximab

Abstract

Background: Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathies (CIDP) is a rare, acquired polyneuropathy, especially in children, affecting the peripheral nervous system. It most commonly presents in a symmetric, proximal and distal, sensorimotor fashion. Immunosuppression and immunomanipulation are treatment modalities. We present a case of a 14 year old male with severe progressive CIDP who became refractory to steroid and IVIg but responded to Rituximab. Methods: Case presentation: A 14-year-old male with a history of asymmetric quadriparesis was diagnosed with CIDP. He had an initial partial response to IVIG and prednisone but then rapidly became refractory to even weekly IVIG and prednisone. Rituximab was therefore started. Results: Within 12 weeks his strength improved from quadriplegia to walker-assisted gait. By 22 weeks he achieved independent ambulation. His JAMAR hand grip increased from 0 to 28 kg. His worst recordable median conduction velocity (CV) improved from a nadir (MRC 0/5) of 14% of normal to 52% at full recovery (MRC 5/5). Conclusions: This case highlights several important clinical points. Dramatic improvement is possible in cases of quadriplegic CIDP. Strength recovery is not linearly related to CV recovery. There appears to be a role for polytherapy.