In News:

The Pune Health Department has reported a surge in Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases, prompting concern due to its severe neurological impact and association with prior infections or immune responses.

What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

• Nature of Disorder: A rare autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system, affecting voluntary muscle control and sensory signals (e.g., pain, temperature, and touch).
• Medical Term: Also known as Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP).
• System Affected: Peripheral nerves, i.e., nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.

Epidemiology:

• Prevalence: Rare but potentially life-threatening.
• Age Group Affected: Can occur at any age but is most common between 30 to 50 years.
• Non-contagious: GBS is not transmitted from person to person.

Causes and Triggers:

• Exact Cause: Unknown, but usually follows an immune response to:
  • Infections: Campylobacter jejuni (foodborne bacteria), Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Cytomegalovirus (CMV), respiratory or urinary tract infections.
  • Vaccinations: Rarely observed post-immunisation.
  • Surgery or trauma: Can act as physical stressors that trigger the syndrome.

Symptoms:

• Initial Signs: Tingling and weakness starting in the legs, progressing upwards.
• Progression:
  • Weakness in arms, facial muscles.
  • Difficulty walking or balancing.
  • In severe cases, respiratory paralysis, requiring ventilator support.
• Onset: Can escalate within hours, days, or weeks.
• Range: Varies from mild muscle weakness to complete paralysis.

Impact:

• Neurological Disruption: Affects communication between the brain and muscles.
• Temporary but Debilitating: Most patients recover over weeks to months, though rehabilitation may be prolonged.
• Critical Care: May require intensive medical and respiratory support in acute stages.

Diagnosis & Treatment:

• No definitive cure, but early intervention improves outcomes.
• Main Treatments:

• Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG):
  • Contains healthy antibodies from donated blood.
  • Helps suppress the immune attack on nerves.
• Plasmapheresis (Plasma Exchange): Filters harmful antibodies from the blood.
• Supportive Therapy:
  • Mechanical ventilation in case of respiratory failure.
  • Physiotherapy for muscle recovery and mobility.