Week 10 - Guillain Barre Syndrome Flashcards
1
Q
what is guillain barre syndrome (GBS)
A
- rare condition where an individual’s immune system attacks the peripheral nerves
2
Q
what is the cause of GBS? what is it often preceded by
A
- unknown
- often preceded by a viral or bacterial infection
3
Q
list symptoms of GBS (5)
A
- loss of sensation
- followed by weakness
- then ataxia
- absent or diminished reflexes in weakened extremities
- progresses to paralysis
4
Q
describe the progression of GBS symptoms
A
“toes to nose”
- usually begin in the legs
- spread to the arms & then the face
5
Q
describe the timeline of symptoms of GBS (3)
A
- over the course of 2 weeks, they begin to move upwards & becom more severe
- by week 2-3 the pt will become completely paralyzed & unable to breath on own
- by week 3-4 symptoms stabilize
6
Q
are symptoms uni or bilateral w GBS
A
- bilateral
7
Q
what % of pts with GBS fully recover
A
70%
8
Q
what does GBS cause problems w (4)
A
- talking
- swallowing
- respiration
- bowel & bladder fnxn
9
Q
describe the diagnosis of GBS (3)
A
- combo of history & manifestations
- elevated cerebrospinal fluid protein levels
- abnormal nerve conduction velocity
