In the past three weeks, Pune has seen a sudden spike in Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) cases. Over 110 cases of GBS have been reported. A 41-year-old chartered accountant became the first confirmed casualty in Pune on Monday. So, what is this rarely heard, but potentially severe neurological disorder that has garnered attention in recent times due to its impact on public health. Gujarat Samachar Digital talked to Dr Urvi Patel, a leading consulting physician and intensivist to gain an insight into the Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS). What are its symptoms, causes, and prevention strategies?.

Why has GBS gained attention recently?

GBS came into the spotlight following the CA’s tragic death in Pune and 110 cases in the region. Health authorities are investigating the factors contributing to this sudden increase, which has raised concerns among medical professionals and the public. 

Dr Patel highlighted the importance of increased awareness, early diagnosis, and preventive measures in light of these alarming developments.

What is Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)?

GBS is a rare demyelinating neurological condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system. This often occurs following an infection, such as a viral illness or bacterial infection. Dr Patel emphasised that GBS is autoimmune and non-communicable, meaning it does not spread from person to person.

Symptoms of GBS

GBS is the rapid onset of progressive and ascending motor weakness, often leading to paralysis. Dr Patel explained, “Symptoms typically start in the legs and may progress to involve the upper body. This progression occurs over a few hours to days.” Other warning signs include numbness, tingling, and altered sensations.

GBS often follows gastrointestinal or respiratory infections. Dr Patel noted that patients may report a history of loose motions, abdominal pain, or respiratory symptoms such as cough and cold before the onset of GBS.

How to detect GBS

To check for potential signs of GBS, Dr Patel recommended performing a sensory examination, which involves testing for light touch, temperature, pain, and vibration sensations. Early detection can play a crucial role in preventing severe complications.

GBS is also known by several other names, including:

Landry’s Ascending Paralysis

Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (AIDP)

Acute Idiopathic Polyradiculoneuritis

Acute Idiopathic Polyneuritis

French Polio

Landry Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Causes and risk factors

The primary culprit behind GBS is the bacterial organism Campylobacter jejuni, which is associated with gastrointestinal infections. It can occur at any age but primarily affects older adults, especially those over 50 years old, as well as children.

Mortality and morbidity rate

The mortality rate for GBS ranges between 3% and 13%, with respiratory failure, pneumonia, cardiac arrest, and autonomic dysfunction being the leading causes of death. The risk of death increases with age, severity of weakness, and prolonged ICU stays.

In terms of morbidity, a significant number of survivors experience long-term motor deficits. “Around 15-20% of patients have moderate residual deficits, while 1-10% are severely disabled. A small percentage may experience an acute relapse after initial improvement.”

Prevention strategies

Food safety: Avoid undercooked poultry, unpasteurised milk, and untreated water.

Hygiene: Maintain proper hygiene practices, including regular hand washing before meals and after using the toilet.

Water safety: Use filtered or boiled water for drinking.

Food consumption: Avoid eating at unhygienic places.

Early medical intervention: Seek medical help immediately upon noticing symptoms to prevent the progression of GBS and its complications.

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