Guillain Barre Syndrome

Question 1

What is Guillain Barre syndrome?

Answer 1

Ascending inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy

Question 2

What are the features of GBS?

Answer 2

Ascending symmetrical limb weakness
Preceding paraesthesia
May involve respiratory system
May present with cranial nerve palsies

Question 3

What signs would be seen on examination of GBS?

Answer 3

LMN signs in the lower limbs
Type 2 respiratory failure
Cranial nerve signs

Question 4

What investigations would be performed in the diagnosis of GBS?

Answer 4

Spirometry - look for reduced FVC
ABG - type 2 respiratory failure
Anti-gangloside antibodies
Lumbar puncture

Question 5

What would a lumbar puncture show in GBS?

Answer 5

Raised protein
Normal cell counts
Normal glucose

Question 6

What is the first line treatment of GBS?

Answer 6

IV immunoglobulins

Question 7

What is the second line treatment of GBS?

Answer 7

Plasmapheresis

Question 8

What is the gold standard investigation in GBS?

Answer 8

Lumbar puncture