CIDP and CT Scan with Contrast
 

Hello Everyone!

I have been diagnosed with CIDP for the past 11 years. My neuromuscular symptoms have remained somewhat stable over the years with IVIG therapy, but muscle weakness has progressed slightly since onset. I have always questioned the accuracy of my diagnosis. I responded to IVIG and my neurologist was able to rule out ALS and MD, so he gave me a diagnosis that the insurance company would approve IVIG for (this is just my opinion).

Over the years I have developed other symptoms that are making me think that I might have rheumatoid arthritis. I developed psoriasis, some mild joint pain, episodes of what I think is IBS and 2 episodes of pericarditis. After my last episode of pericarditis, my cardiologist ran blood tests for inflammation and blood clot. The D-Dimer result was slightly elevated so he wants me to go for a CT scan with contrast to rule out blood clot. My chest pain (pericarditis) resolved itself after 3 days. I am thinking D-Dimer results could indicate inflammation as with rheumatoid arthritis.

My question is if anyone knows if the iodine based contrast with a CT scan could exacerbate symptoms with CIDP, or other autoimmune disease. I am very concerned about getting the iodine IV for fear I could have an adverse reaction.

Thank you for any feedback.

Amanda

Elevated D-dimer levels usually indicate the presence of a blood clot which is in the process of being broken down though it does not indicate the site(s) of the clot(s). I don't know of any evidence which links it to rheumatoid arthritis.

Iodine contrast can lead to kidney problems though this is rare. It can also lead to thyroid gland problems (either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism). I can not find any evidence linking it to auto-immune diseases.