Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)
Context
Recently, the Union Health Ministry organised a team to assess the situation in Maharashtra after the sudden outbreak of the Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS).
Relevance:
GS-02 (Health)
Key Highlights of the Article
- 73 cases of GBS were reported, with 14 patients on ventilators. Rapid Response Teams have been deployed by the government.
- GBS is a rare autoimmune disorder that damages peripheral nerves, often triggered by bacterial or viral infections.
Dimensions of the Article
- What is Guillain-Barré syndrome?
- How Does GBS Affect the Body?
- How is GBS treated?
What is Guillain-Barré syndrome?
- It is a rare autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks its own peripheral nerves.
- It may be caused by an acute bacterial or viral infection such as those caused by Campylobacter jejuni, the flu virus, or Zika virus and in some cases even due to a particular type of vaccine.
- This results in muscle weakness and, in severe cases, leads to paralysis.
- While the exact causes remain unclear, GBS often follows bacterial or viral infections.
How Does GBS Affect the Body?
- The condition impacts the peripheral nervous system, damaging the myelin sheath around nerves.
- This disrupts nerve signals, leading to symptoms like tingling, muscle weakness, and even paralysis in severe cases.
- It can also affect chest muscles, making it difficult to breathe, and may interfere with swallowing and speaking.
How is GBS treated?
- While there is no definitive cure, treatments like plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy can help manage the condition.
- Rehabilitation and supportive care, including physical therapy, play a significant role in recovery. In severe cases, intensive care may be required to manage complications.
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