Guillain-barre syndrome

Guillain-Barre (Ghee-yan Bah-ray) Syndrome is an inflammatory condition of the peripheral nerves. Peripheral nerves are found outside the brain and spinal cord. Guillain-Barre is also called acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy and Landry's ascending paralysis.

The main symptoms are weakness, numbness, tingling, and paralysis. The symptoms usually start in the feet and legs, then arms and face. It can cause paralysis of the breathing muscles of the chest. The symptoms appear quickly over a day and may worsen over 3 to 4 days. In severe cases, it is a medical emergency and the person may need intensive care treatment with a breathing machine.

Guillain-Barre syndrome typically occurs after a viral or bacterial infection or, in rare cases, following a vaccination. Most people who get Guillain-Barre have a history of a recent minor illness with fever. This could be a cold, respiratory flu or stomach flu. Recently, Campylobacter, a bacteria found in inadequately cooked food, especially poultry has been a rare cause of Guillain-Barre.

The disease can occur at any age, but is most common in adults. It goes away completely in more than 9 out of 10 cases. Some people may have mild long-term loss of reflexes in the feet and legs. The outlook is best if symptoms clear within 15 to 20 days of onset.

The causes of Guillain-Barre are not well understood. It may be due to the body's immune system attacking the nerves. Research indicates that the immune system may destroy the protective covering of the peripheral nerves, the myelin sheath. The myelin sheath prevents the nerves from sending signals to muscles to contract. Because the muscles are not receiving messages from the nerves, they become weak, numb or paralysis may occur. Muscle weakness usually appears in the legs first. It can extend to the arms and face in 1 to 3 days. There is often loss of the sense of touch at the same time. There may also be numbness or tingling. Stiffness and cramping pain, like a "charley horse," often occur. Deep, aching muscle pain is also common.

The syndrome may lead to serious problems like:

• breathing failure
• pneumonia
• joint problems
• blood clots in the veins and
• loss of bladder or bowel control

There is no cure for the condition and recovery can take days, weeks, or months. People treated early have a better chance of quick recovery. Treatment mainly involves dealing with the symptoms and supporting the person during recovery. Most people recover almost completely from Guillain-Barre but some may have long-term weakness.

If you have recently had a fever and notice muscle weakness, consult your healthcare provider.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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