Walsh & Hoyt: Pathogenesis and Pathophysiology

The pathologic findings in AIDP are consistent with an acquired immune-mediated disorder. Clinical immunologic studies and findings in an almost identical animal model called experimental allergic neuritis indicate that both humoral and cell-mediated systems may participate in production of the disease. AIDP may be caused by antibodies to nerve tissue or soluble immune complexes. Macrophages seem to be the chief effector cells mediating damage to myelin, apparently acting as antigen-presenting cells. There also is evidence of activation of T-lymphocytes, but it is unclear if these cells have a primary pathogenic function or simply are involved secondarily in the inflammatory process.