Guillain-Barre Syndrome Flashcards
Where is the autoimmunity targeting in GB syndrome?
The PNS
Does GB usually go away?
Yes within around 6-12 months. That is why it is not tradition autoimmunity because traditional autoimmunity is lifelong
What is the etiology of GB syndrome?
Idiopathic - truly autoimmune but not of the traditional type
What GB preceded by about 1-4 weeks before autoimmunity starts?
Preceded by URT (viral infection usually EBV) or GI (bacterial infection usually compylobacter jejuni)
What is the patho of GB syndrome?
Abs and T cells target myelin sheaths in PNS -> damage of Schwann cells -> inflammation and damage -> loss of conduction
What are the manifestation of GB syndrome?
Signs of infection from URT or GI (if still present when autoimmunity starts)
Parasthesias (numbness and tingling) that turns into muscle weakness and then paralysis
What is unique about the progression of manifestations of GB syndrome?
The parasthesias start in the feet and then move in ascending order up the body. When the manifestations begin to go away they go away in descending order.
When parasthesias from GB syndrome pass either the hips or shoulders what is experienced?
Deep muscle pain
What is the main cause of death from GB syndrome?
Respiratory failure
How is GB syndrome diagnosed?(4)
Hx
Px (neuro & musculoskeletal exam to determine whether it is a neural, muscular or neuromuscular issue)
Weak tendon reflexes
Decreased nerve conduction
CSF analysis - slightly elevated proteins as innervation for PNS is at spinal cord
What is the treatment for GB syndrome?(4)
Preserve life
Plasmapheresis
IV IgG (immunoglobulins)
Pain meds
What is GB syndrome?
Untraditional autoimmunity that results in general paralysis