CIDP: Mimics and Chameleons

Autonomic Involvement

In contrast to Guillain–Barré syndrome, CIDP rarely has autonomic features. When present, autonomic dysfunction is never significant and mainly manifests as bowel and bladder complaints. Baroreflex-mediated peripheral vasoconstriction is relatively spared in CIDP and therefore significant orthostatic hypotension is uncommon. Any significant autonomic features should lead one to consider alternative diagnoses, especially amyloid, diabetic neuropathy, and rarely vasculitis or even a second diagnosis.