Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Acute

What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare condition in which a person's immune system attacks the peripheral nerves. People of all ages can be affected, but it is more common in adults and in males. Most people recover fully from even the most severe cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome

  • A pins and needles sensation in your fingers, toes, ankles or wrists.
  • Weakness in your legs that spreads to your upper body.
  • Unsteady walking or inability to walk or climb stairs.
  • Difficulty with facial movements, including speaking, chewing or swallowing.

Even in the best of settings, a small number of Guillain-Barré syndrome patients die from complications, which can include paralysis of the muscles that control breathing, blood infection, lung clots, or cardiac arrest

The exact cause of Guillain-Barre syndrome isn't known. The disorder usually appears days or weeks after a respiratory or digestive tract infection. Rarely, recent surgery or vaccination can trigger Guillain-Barre syndrome. There have been cases reported following infection with the Zika virus. Guillain-Barre syndrome may occur after infection with the COVID-19 virus. It's also a rare reaction in those who receive the Johnson & Johnson or AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

In Guillain-Barre syndrome, your immune system — which usually attacks only invading organisms — begins attacking the nerves. In AIDP, the nerves' protective covering (myelin sheath) is damaged.

Infection with the bacteria Campylobacter jejuni, which causes gastroenteritis (including symptoms of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea), is one of the most common risk factors for GBS. People also can develop GBS after having the flu or other infections such as cytomegalovirus and Epstein-Barr virus.

There is no known action that can be taken to prevent Guillain-Barre syndrome.

How is it diagnosed?

How is it diagnosed?

The most commonly used treatment for Guillain-Barré syndrome is intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). When you have Guillain-Barré syndrome, the immune system (the body's natural defences) produces harmful antibodies that attack the nerves. IVIG is a treatment made from donated blood that contains healthy antibodies.

How is it treated?

Treatment for acute myeloid leukemia is vital. It varies with the patient and stage of the disease. Treatment options include

  • Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis). The liquid portion of part of your blood (plasma) is removed and separated from your blood cells.
  • Immunoglobulin therapy. Immunoglobulin containing healthy antibodies from blood donors is given through a vein (intravenously).

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