Guillain-Barre syndrome

About Guillain-Barre syndrome

• It is a rare autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves.
• It is more common in adults and males, but it can affect people of all ages.
• Symptoms
  • The first symptoms of this syndrome include weakness or tingling sensations. They usually start in the legs, and can spread to the arms and face.
  • For some people, these symptoms can lead to paralysis of the legs, arms, or muscles in the face.
• Causes
  • It is often preceded by an infection.
  • This could be a bacterial or viral infection.
  • The most frequently associated infections include Campylobacter jejuni, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and the bacteria responsible for pneumonia and urinary tract infections.
  • It may also be triggered by vaccine administration or surgery.
• Diagnosis
  • There is no known cure for this syndrome.
  • The most commonly used treatment is intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), which is made from donated blood that contains healthy antibodies.
  • This helps calm down the immune system's attack on the nerves.

Q1) What is the immune system?

The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs in the human body that work together to protect the body from infections, diseases, and foreign invaders. Its primary function is to recognize and eliminate harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

Source: The risk of Guillain-Barre syndrome is six times higher after Covid infection.