Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Question 1

what is guillain barre syndrome also called

Answer 1

acute ascending polyneuritis

Question 2

what is GBS

Answer 2

autoimmune disorder that damages the myelin sheath often following a viral infection

Question 3

what are the possible triggers of GBS

Answer 3

viral
bacterial: campylobacter jejuni
post surgery

Question 4

what are the clinical manifestations of GBS

Answer 4

initial: weakness/tingling in lower extremities
- weakness tends to begin in the lower extremities then work its way
- when strength comes back, it begins in the upper area and moves downwards
- severity of sx inc over hrs to weeks
- life threatening once resp muscle get involved

Question 5

what are the other clinical manifestations of GBS

Answer 5

• uncoordinated movements
• numbness and dec sensations
• loss of bowel/bladder control
• blurred vision
• difficulty breathing, swallowing, chewing

Question 6

is there a cure for GBS

Answer 6

no but can treat the sx

Question 7

what is the goal of pharm for GBS

Answer 7

reduce severity and accelerate recovery

Question 8

what is the broad therapy used for GBS

Answer 8

steroids
high dose immunoglobulin therapy

Question 9

what is the prognosis of GBS

Answer 9

most survive and completely recover
- some have residual weakness lasting for 3 years
- about 3% suffer relapse