Clinical correlates of fatigue in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy

INTRODUCTION: Fatigue is a recognized manifestation of immune-mediated neuropathies, but its causes and implications are unclear. In this study, we explored the correlates of fatigue among a number of clinical parameters in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) to better understand potential contributing factors and resulting consequences.

METHODS: Twenty-six clinically stable patients with CIDP underwent assessments of motor and sensory function, disability, quality of life, and depression and anxiety. Experienced fatigue was assessed by using the Rasch-built Fatigue Severity Scale and the Checklist of Individual Strength.

RESULTS: The two fatigue scales provided evidence of significant intercorrelation. Only depression scores and grip strength predicted experienced fatigue levels in multivariate regression analyses. Fatigue scores inversely correlated with strength, sensory, disability, and quality of life scores.

DISCUSSION: Experienced fatigue is likely multifactorial in CIDP, with both physical and neuropsychiatric components. Fatigue is associated with lower functional and quality-of-life outcomes in CIDP.