Guillain-Barré syndrome is a pathologic process that may occur after your body's immune system responds to an infection. Your immune system can react to parts of your nerves that appear similar to infectious elements. In this way, your own body can attack parts of your nervous system.
Common infections associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome include Campylobacter jejuni, cytomegalovirus, influenza A and B, HIV, COVID-19 virus, Zika virus, among others. Guillain-Barré syndrome has occurred after certain vaccinations, but the risk appears to be very low. Additionally, a small proportion of patients may develop Guillain-Barré syndrome after surgery or trauma. However, the overall global incidence is 1-2 case per 100,000 per year (research citation below!).
The typical presentation of Guillain-Barré syndrome is a symmetric muscle weakness with decreased reflexes throughout. The degree of weakness can vary; patients may have some difficulty with moving or they might have very severe weakness resulting in almost complete paralysis. They may also have changes in sensation.
Guillain-Barré syndrome usually progresses over days to weeks and typically resolves over several weeks. Some patients may require hospitalization and monitoring if their presentation is severe. They may even require treatment with intravenous immune globulins or other therapies. Some lasting effects may include weakness, numbness, and tingling in the arms and legs.
McGrogan A, Madle GC, Seaman HE, de Vries CS. The epidemiology of Guillain-Barré syndrome worldwide. A systematic literature review. Neuroepidemiology. 2009;32(2):150-63. doi: 10.1159/000184748. Epub 2008 Dec 17. PMID: 19088488.
Comments