Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Question 1

What is GBS.

Answer 1

An autoimmune response causing demyelination.

Question 2

When does GBS usually occur.

Answer 2

Usually occurs following a respiratory or GI infection.

Question 3

What is GBS associated with. (5)

Answer 3

Infections. 
Malignancies. 
Drugs. 
Pregnancy. 
Vaccinations.

Question 4

What are the symptoms of GBS. (6)

Answer 4

Progressive ascending weakness. 
Sensory loss. 
Paraesthesia. 
Pain. 
Dysphasia. 
Dysarthria.

Question 5

What are the physical signs of GBS. (5)

Answer 5

Dysreflexia. 
Hypotonia. 
Papilloedema. 
Bulbar palsy. 
Labile vital signs due to autonomic involvement.

Question 6

In what percentage of GBS cases are cranial nerves involved.

Answer 6

45-70%.

Question 7

How long might it take to develop abnormal nerve conduction in GBS.

Answer 7

May take 2-3 weeks.

Question 8

What is seen on a lumbar puncture of a patient with GBS. (2)

Answer 8

Raised CSF protein.

Normal cell counts.

Question 9

What abnormality is seen on the blood test of a patient with GBS.

Answer 9

Raised LFTs.

Question 10

What is the mortality rate from GBS.

Answer 10

5-10%.

Question 11

What are the complications of GBS. (6)

Answer 11

Autonomic lability. 
Pneumonia. 
Respiratory failure. 
Cardiac arrhythmias. 
Neurological sequelae. 
Death.