Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): The number of cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) crossed the 100 mark in Pune recently.

• About: GBS is a rare neurological disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system—the network of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
• Symptoms include weakness, sensory changes, difficulty walking, facial paralysis, difficulty swallowing, and coordination issues.
• Causes: Unknown, but GBS often follows a respiratory or gastrointestinal infection.

o Infections with bacteria like Campylobacter jejuni and viruses such as Zika, COVID-19, Epstein-Barr, and others have been associated with GBS.

• Diagnosis:

o Medical History & Physical Exam: Assesses muscle/nerve function, reflexes, symptom progression.

o Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV): Slowed nerve signals indicate damage.

o Cerebrospinal Fluid Analysis: Elevated protein with normal white blood cell count suggests GBS.

o Imaging: MRI helps rule out other conditions.

• Treatment:

o Plasma Exchange (Plasmapheresis): Removes harmful antibodies.

o Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg): Provides normal antibodies to reduce immune activity.

o Supportive Care: Monitors/manage complications like respiratory failure, heart rate issues, autonomic dysfunction.