MMN – Mutifocal Motor Neuropathy

Mutifocal Motor Neuropathy (MMN) is an inflammatory nerve disease affecting the myelin sheath, or the insulation of nerves, similar to CIDP and GBS. It typically has a slow course over many years and affects the arms with weakness in the muscles that bend the fingers, however any nerve and muscle group can be affected. On nerve testing (EMG), “blocking” of the responses to the nerves which go to the muscles is seen. Sometimes, antibodies to a molecule called GM1-ganglioside are present and can be detected with additional testing. This can help with the diagnosis.

Treatments:
– Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)
– Plasma exchange
– In contrast to CIDP, MMN is not usually responsive to medications such as prednisone or other
immunosuppressives.