The unusual symptoms began about a year ago while Thanh was in the US, starting with mild numbness in his fingers and toes that gradually spread up his hands and feet. He received medication and monthly immune globulin infusions for six months. Upon returning to Ho Chi Minh City to visit his family, his condition worsened, with increased numbness and weakness affecting all four limbs.

On 22/7, Dr. Ly Thi Kim Ngan of the Neurology Department at the Neuroscience Center, explained that Thanh suffers from chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), a variant of distal acquired demyelinating symmetric (DADS) neuropathy. CIDP is a rare autoimmune neurological disorder where the immune system attacks the myelin sheath, characterized by progressive muscle weakness and sensory disturbances. Myelin is the protective covering around nerve fibers, responsible for providing nourishment and ensuring efficient nerve impulse transmission. Damage to the myelin sheath disrupts these signals, leading to numbness, weakness, loss of sensation, and reduced muscle strength in the limbs.

After consultations, doctors prescribed Thanh a treatment plan involving immunosuppressants and nerve support medication to manage his symptoms. After four days of treatment, the strength in his legs improved, enabling him to stand, walk short distances, and eat and sleep well. A follow-up appointment was scheduled after seven days to monitor his progress and adjust the treatment if necessary.

Dr. Ngan examines Thanh's neurological function after four days of treatment. Photo: Trong Nghia

Dr. Ngan examines Thanh's neurological function after four days of treatment. Photo: Trong Nghia

Dr. Ngan noted that while 80-85% of CIDP patients respond to immunosuppressive treatments, the recurrence rate after initial treatment is high. The disease does not resolve spontaneously and carries the risk of long-term neurological disability. Individuals experiencing symptoms such as numbness, tingling pain, or symmetrical loss of sensation in their limbs should seek medical attention for evaluation and treatment to prevent serious complications.

Trong Nghia - Phuong Pham

*The patient's name has been changed.