Guillain-Barre Syndrome Introduction

Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a rare but serious disease affecting the peripheral nervous system in which the body’s own immune system attacks the nerves causing a widespread inflammation leading to tingling and numbing sensation of the limbs (arms and legs) eventually resulting in a short term loss of feeling and movement (temporary paralysis). (1)

The symptoms can intensify leading to total paralyses, and ultimately, death. Patients are put on a respirator to assist in breathing and most of them eventually recover from severe effects though some continue to experience partial weakness. It is important to note that generally, Guillain-Barre Syndrome affects people with symptoms of respiratory or gastrointestinal viral infection.

Exact causes of the syndrome are not clear but it is known that the body’s immune system attacks the body itself (autoimmune disease). “Guillain-Barré is called a syndrome rather than a disease because it is not clear that a specific disease-causing agent is involved” (2).

Generally, patients suffering from Guillain-Barre Syndrome exhibit absence or a profound delay in conduction by nerve fibers due to demyelination of nerve cell axons causing direct cellular immune attack on the axon leading to its damage. Peripheral nerves and spinal roots are the sites of demyelination (3).

Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) occurs at a frequency of 1-2 cases per every 100,000 people annually in the US and can affect any individual regardless of age or sex. (4).

Conditions & Diseases: Brain & Nervous System

Guillain Barré Syndrome

Introduction & Overview