MS, GBS and PD

Question 1

what is the most common cause of GBS and what does it cause

Answer 1

mainly caused by infection (virus) that causes demyelination to the peripheral nerve

Question 2

what are the clinical features of GBS

Answer 2

symmetric ascending muscle weakness, paralysis, respi failure, parethesias, diarrhoea

Question 3

diagnostic tests for GBS (5)

Answer 3

1. history taking and physical exam
2. blood test
3. ECG
4. CSF analysis (protein elevated, normal WBC)
5. Anti-GQ1b antibodies

Question 4

what are the treatments for GBS (3)

Answer 4

IVIG, plasmapharesis (plasma exchange) - main treatment
*gabapentin/carbamazepine (neuropathic pain)

Question 5

describe MS and what it affects

Answer 5

it is a chronic disease and it is the demyelination in the brain and spinal cord which results in progressive neurological deficits (autoimmune disease)

Question 6

what are the diagnostic test for MS (5)

Answer 6

1. history taking and neuro exam
2. MRI
3. Evoked Potential
4. Oligoclonal IgG in CSF
5. Serum aquaporin 4

Question 7

what is the most common clinical finding in MS

Answer 7

vision loss

Question 8

what are the treatments for MS (3)

Answer 8

1. interferon 1a (rebif) and interferon 1b (betaseron) SC
2. autologous stem cell transplant
3. steroids (prednisolone/IV methylprednisolone)

Question 9

what are the cardinal features of PD (3)

Answer 9

bradykinesia, tremor at rest and rigidity

Question 10

what are the diagnostic tests used for PD (4)

Answer 10

1. history taking and exam
2. MRI
3. PET
4. SPECT