Overview of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)
- What it is: GBS is a rare autoimmune neurological disorder where the body’s immune system attacks its peripheral nerves, leading to muscle weakness and potentially paralysis.
- Incidence: Affects about 1-2 per 1,00,000 people, with adults and males being more commonly affected.
Relevance : GS 2(Health )
- Outbreak in Pune: As of January 25, 2025, there have been 73 reported cases in Pune, Maharashtra, with 14 patients on ventilator support. A Rapid Response Team has been deployed by the state to investigate the cause.
Causes of Guillain-Barré Syndrome
- Unknown cause: The exact cause is still not fully understood, but viral or bacterial infections are common triggers.
- Infections linked to GBS:
- Campylobacter jejuni (a bacteria causing gastroenteritis) is one of the most frequent triggers.
- Other viruses like influenza, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and Zika virus can also lead to GBS.
Symptoms of Guillain-Barré Syndrome
- Initial Symptoms: Typically, tingling and weakness start in the feet and legs, gradually spreading to the upper body, arms, and face.
- Key symptoms:
- Pins and needles sensation in extremities.
- Pain in the back, legs, and limbs.
- Difficulty walking or climbing stairs.
- Facial movement problems and double vision.
- In severe cases, paralysis can occur, particularly affecting arms, legs, or face.
- Respiratory issues if chest muscles are affected, making breathing difficult.
- Life-threatening complications: If GBS affects the autonomic nervous system, it can disrupt blood pressure and heart rate, making the condition potentially life-threatening.
Treatment of Guillain-Barré Syndrome
- No Cure: There is currently no cure for GBS, but treatment can aid recovery.
- Primary treatments:
- Plasma exchange (Plasmapheresis): This involves removing and treating the plasma (liquid part of the blood) to eliminate harmful antibodies attacking the nerves.
- Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg): Immunoglobulins are injected into the body to reduce the immune system’s attack on the nerves.
- Supportive Care: Intensive care may be needed, especially for patients with severe symptoms. Rehabilitation such as physical therapy and occupational therapy is often required to aid recovery.
Recovery and Prognosis
- Recovery timeline: Most patients can make a nearly full recovery, although it can take several months to years.
- Severity: The degree of recovery depends on how severe the disease was. Some patients recover faster, while others may face long-term effects.
Is GBS Life-Threatening?
- Potentially life-threatening: While most people survive, severe cases of GBS can affect breathing and heart functions, requiring intensive medical care. Quick diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
What’s Happening in Pune?
- Reported Outbreak: As of January 2025, Pune has seen a rise in GBS cases, with 73 affected individuals. This has led to intervention by the Union Health Ministry, which has sent a team to assess the situation, while the Maharashtra government has deployed a Rapid Response Team to investigate the cause.
