GBS – Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is an inflammatory disorder of the peripheral nerves, those outside the brain and the spinal cord. Rapid onset of weakness and often paralysis of the legs and arms within a few weeks of onset accompany this disorder. Back pain or pain in the extremities as well as numbness and tingling can also be a part of the initial presentation.
Patients during early days of onset may require intensive care to monitor breathing and other body functions. Rehabilitation helps during the recovery phase, which can take months or even years. GBS can affect any person, at any age, of either gender, or any ethnic background.
Miller Fisher syndrome (MFS) is a variant of GBS which also presents rapidly and affects the peripheral nerves. However, MFS more commonly causes unsteadiness and imbalance and affects the eye muscles causing double vision, visual blurring or droopy eyelids.

Treatments:
– High dose of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)
– Plasma exchange