Guillain-barre syndrome

Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Guillain-Barre Syndrome (pronounced ghee-yan bah-ray) is a rare neurological disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks part of its peripheral nerves.

Etymology

The syndrome is named after the French neurologists Georges Guillain and Jean Alexandre Barré, who, along with André Strohl, described the syndrome in two soldiers in 1916. The term "syndrome" is derived from the Greek "σύνδρομον," meaning "concurrence."

Symptoms

The first symptoms of Guillain-Barre Syndrome are usually weakness and tingling in the lower extremities. These sensations can quickly spread, eventually paralyzing the whole body. In its most severe form, Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a medical emergency requiring hospitalization.

Causes

The exact cause of Guillain-Barre Syndrome is unknown, but it is often preceded by an infectious illness such as a respiratory infection or the stomach flu.

Treatment

While there is no known cure for Guillain-Barre Syndrome, several treatments can ease symptoms and reduce the duration of the illness. Treatments include plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.

Related Terms

• Peripheral nerves
• Neurological disorder
• Plasma exchange
• Intravenous immunoglobulin

See Also

• Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy
• Miller Fisher Syndrome

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Guillain-barre syndrome
• Wikipedia's article - Guillain-barre syndrome

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