Neuroimaging in diagnosis of atypical polyradiculoneuropathies: report of three cases and review of the literature

Neuroimaging is increasingly used in the study of peripheral nerve diseases, and sometimes may have a pivotal role in the diagnostic process. We report on three patients with atypical chronic inflammatory polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) in whom magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nerve Ultrasound (US) were crucial for a correct diagnostic work-out. A literature review on MRI and US in acquired demyelinating polyneuropathies is also provided. Awareness of the imaging features of CIDP will assist in confirmation of the diagnosis, institution of the appropriate therapy, and prevention of inadequate or delayed treatment in atypical CIDP.