Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a disorder in which the body's immune system (Read about "The Immune System") attacks the nerves, damaging the peripheral nerves, which are the part of the nervous system (Read about "Nervous System") that's outside the brain and spinal cord. (Read about "Peripheral Neuropathy") It causes muscle weakness, paralysis and in rare cases, can even be fatal. In most cases, however, patients are able to make a complete or nearly complete recovery.

GBS is not common, affecting only about one or two people in 100,000, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), but it can strike anyone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say GBS can affect people of any race or gender at any age.

Guillain-Barré syndrome involves rapidly occurring muscle weakness and paralysis of the legs, arms, face and upper body. The first signs are usually feelings of weakness and strange or tingling sensations in the hands, feet, arms and legs. These usually occur on both sides of the body. Loss of reflexes is also common. The symptoms can progress over hours, days or weeks. In the more severe cases, patients can become almost completely paralyzed. Also, the chest and breathing muscles may be affected; in which case, the patient is hospitalized and put on a respirator.

The cause of GBS is unknown. It is thought that it may be triggered by an infection. The Guillain-Barré Syndrome Foundation International (GBSFI) says about 50 percent of cases of GBS occur after an infection. (Read about "Microorganisms") Particularly, it seems cases can occur after a respiratory or gastrointestinal infection. (Read about "Respiratory System" "Digestive System") CDC says the most common infection that precedes GBS is caused by a bacterium called Campylobacter jejuni. (Read about "Campylobacter")

Because the exact cause of GBS is unknown, there is no cure. It can last for weeks to months. Treatment is aimed at lessening the symptoms of the disorder. This often includes hospitalization to monitor breathing, blood pressure and other body functions. Plasmapheresis (or plasma exchange) may be used. This is a procedure to "cleanse" the blood by removing some of the patient's plasma, which the body quickly replaces. This process can reduce the severity and duration of GBS. Another technique, high-dose immunoglobulin therapy, can also shorten the course of GBS. In addition, physical therapy and rehabilitation programs (Read about "Rehabilitation") can help strengthen weakened muscles and limbs. Fortunately, most patients recover, even from severe cases, and return to a normal lifestyle. Some, however, may continue to suffer weakness and some may have permanent nerve damage.