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Picture Courtesy: India Today

Context:

Sudden increase in Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases in Pune, Maharashtra.

About the Guillain-Barré Syndrome

It is a rare neurological disorder where the body's immune system attacks the nervous system, causing symptoms like weakness, numbness, and even paralysis.

The exact cause of GBS remains unknown, but it is commonly triggered by a previous viral or bacterial infection, vaccination, or major surgery. In these situations, the immune system becomes overactive and attacks the nerves.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms generally begin with weakness in the feet, which can progress upwards to the legs, arms, face, and even affect breathing muscles.

Other symptoms may include difficulty with vision, swallowing, speaking, or chewing, and abnormal heart rate or blood pressure.

Pain, especially at night, and problems with digestion or bladder control are also common.

In severe cases, GBS can lead to paralysis, including the inability to breathe without support. However, it is not considered contagious and will not lead to an epidemic or pandemic.

How is it diagnosed?

Doctors diagnose GBS through a physical exam, a review of the patient's medical history, and tests like the Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) test, which measures how well nerves transmit signals. They may also examine the cerebrospinal fluid around the spinal cord.

What treatment options are available?

Currently, there is no cure for GBS. The most common treatment is intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), which helps calm the immune system and reduces nerve damage.

Many people recover from GBS, but the recovery process can take weeks to years. Some individuals may not fully recover and experience ongoing issues like fatigue, weakness, or pain.

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Source:

INDIA TODAY

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Which of the following sentence is incorrect about the Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS):

A) Guillain-Barré Syndrome is more common in adults than children.

B) The treatment for GBS primarily focuses on antiviral medications.

C) Plasmapheresis is often used in the treatment of severe cases.

D) The syndrome may cause respiratory failure in severe cases.

Answer: B

Explanation: GBS is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks the peripheral nerves, so treatment primarily focuses on immunomodulatory therapies like plasmapheresis and intravenous immunoglobulin, not antiviral medications which target viruses.