Guillain-Barré (Ghee-yan Bah-ray) Syndrome, also called acute idiopathic polyneuritis and Landry's ascending paralysis, is an inflammatory disorder of the peripheral nerves, those outside the brain and spinal chord. It is characterized by the rapid onset of weakness and often, paralysis of the legs, arms, breathing muscles and face. Abnormal sensations often accompany the weakness.

Many patients require an intensive care unit during the early course of their illness, especially if support of breathing with a machine is required. Although most people recover, this can take months, and some may have long term disabilities of varying degrees. Less than 5 percent die. GBS can develop in any person at any age, regardless of gender or ethnic background.



HOW IS GBS DIAGNOSED?

Quite often, the patient's symptoms and physical exam are sufficient to indicate the diagnosis. The rapid onset of (ascending) weakness, frequently accompanied by abnormal sensations that affect both sides of the body similarly, is a common presenting picture. Loss of reflexes, such as the knee jerk, are usually found. To confirm the diagnosis, a lumbar puncture to find elevated fluid protein and electrical test of nerve and muscle function may be performed.



HOW IS GBS TREATED?

Because progression of the disease in its early stages is unpredictable, most newly diagnosed patients are hospitalized, and usually placed in an intensive care unit to monitor breathing and other body functions.

Care involves use of general supportive measures for the paralyzed patient, and also methods specifically designed to speed recovery, especially for those patients with major problems, such as inability to walk. Plasma exchange (a blood "cleansing" procedure) and high dose intravenous immune globulins are often helpful to shorten the course of GBS.

Most patients, after their early hospital stay and when medically stable, are candidates for a rehabilitation program to help learn optimal use of muscles as nerve supply returns.



WHAT CAUSES GBS?

The cause is not known. Perhaps 50% of cases occur shortly after a viral infection such as a sore throat or diarrhea. Many cases developed in people who received the 1976 swine flu vaccine. Some theories suggest an autoimmune mechanism, in which the patients defense system of antibodies and white blood cells are triggered into damaging the nerve covering or insulation, leading to weakness and abnormal sensation.






HOME


I got my border background from:
LEAH' S BORDER BOUTIQUE