Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening neurological disorder that causes rapid-onset muscle weakness due to the immune system attacking the peripheral nervous system. While the exact cause of GBS remains unclear, it is often triggered by infections, such as respiratory or gastrointestinal illnesses, and, in some rare cases, by vaccinations or surgery.
Table of Contents
What is Guillain–Barré Syndrome?
Guillain–Barré syndrome typically begins with changes in sensation or pain, often starting in the back, and is followed by muscle weakness. This weakness often begins in the feet and hands before spreading to the arms and upper body. Symptoms can progress quickly, ranging from a few hours to several weeks, and may affect both sides of the body equally.
During the acute phase, the condition can be life-threatening, with up to 15% of individuals developing weakness in the muscles that control breathing, necessitating mechanical ventilation. Additionally, about two-thirds of those affected experience abnormalities in heart rate and blood pressure due to the involvement of the autonomic nervous system.
Also Read: Suspected GBS Deaths in Maharashtra Rise to 4, E. Coli Found in Water Samples
Causes and Triggers
Although the specific cause of Guillain–Barré syndrome remains unknown, it is believed to be triggered by the body’s immune system mistakenly attacking the peripheral nerves. About two-thirds of people with GBS report having experienced an infection in the 3–6 weeks before the onset of neurological symptoms. The most common triggers are infections caused by Campylobacter jejuni (a bacterium causing gastroenteritis) and cytomegalovirus (CMV), although the exact reasons why these infections lead to GBS are not fully understood.
In rare instances, Guillain–Barré syndrome has also been associated with vaccinations, particularly those for influenza, though these cases remain uncommon.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The first symptoms of Guillain–Barré syndrome are often numbness, tingling, or pain, accompanied by muscle weakness. The severity of the weakness can escalate over days to weeks, and in some cases, it can continue progressing for up to four weeks. Muscles controlling the face, eyes, and swallowing may also be affected, and some individuals experience difficulty with balance and coordination.
To diagnose Guillain–Barré syndrome, doctors typically rely on a combination of clinical evaluation, nerve conduction studies, and tests of cerebrospinal fluid. In certain cases, the condition may be mistaken for other causes of pain or difficulty walking, particularly in young children.
Treatment and Recovery
The prognosis for Guillain–Barré syndrome has improved significantly in recent decades due to advances in treatment. Early intervention with intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) or plasmapheresis (a process that removes harmful antibodies from the blood) can help speed recovery. Most individuals experience significant improvement over time, though recovery may take weeks to years. A third of those affected may have lingering weakness, and approximately 7.5% of people with Guillain–Barré syndrome may die from complications.
Supportive care is critical during the acute phase, especially for individuals who develop respiratory failure or autonomic dysfunction. The majority of patients experience the plateau phase, where symptoms stabilize before gradually improving.
Guillain–Barré Syndrome and Its Impact
Though Guillain–Barré syndrome is rare, with an incidence of 1 to 2 cases per 100,000 people annually, its potential severity underscores the importance of awareness and early intervention. Globally, research into the syndrome continues, as scientists work to uncover the precise mechanisms behind its development and improve treatment options.
The condition, first described by French neurologists Georges Guillain and Jean Alexandre Barré in 1916, has been historically linked with significant public figures. For example, some believe U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt may have suffered from Guillain–Barré syndrome, rather than polio, based on recent analysis of his symptoms.
While the exact cause of Guillain–Barré syndrome remains elusive, prompt medical intervention and ongoing support can greatly improve the chances of recovery for those affected.
