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The first case of Guillain-Barré Syndrome was identified in Pune on January 9. Read on to find out more about its early symptoms.
GBS can be diagnosed through MRI and CT scans as it can help rule out other conditions.
Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a rare neurological disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves. This condition can develop after bacterial or viral infections, such as diarrhoea, chikungunya, or COVID-19, due to a phenomenon known as molecular mimicry. According to Times Of India, the first case of GBS this year was reported on January 9 in Pune. Since then, several patients have been receiving treatment at government hospitals, including Sassoon Hospital, Kamla Nehru Hospital, and YCM Hospital in Pimpri-Chinchwad. The emergence of GBS in India has heightened awareness about its symptoms, emphasizing the need for early medical intervention.
Recognizing The Symptoms Of GBS
Dr Mahesh Jadhav, Consultant Neurologist at Manipal Hospital in Pune, told TOI that initial symptoms often include tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation in the feet, which rapidly spreads upward. Over time, individuals may struggle with basic movements such as standing, sitting, or even holding small objects like a cup. Progressive muscle weakness eventually affects mobility, making simple tasks difficult. Some patients may also experience issues with blood pressure, bladder control, and digestion, including constipation.
Conditions That Mimic Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)
Several other neurological disorders can present symptoms similar to GBS, making accurate diagnosis crucial. These conditions include:
- Hypokalemic Paralysis
- Acute Transverse Myelitis (ATM)
- Critical Illness Neuropathy
- Botulism
- Tick Paralysis
- Myasthenia Gravis
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Toxic Neuropathies (e.g., West Nile Virus Infection, Heavy Metal Toxicity)
- Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP)
Key Differences Between GBS and Its Mimics
GBS is typically marked by a rapid onset of muscle weakness that moves upward from the lower limbs, whereas some other conditions progress more gradually or present different patterns of weakness. In GBS, deep tendon reflexes are usually reduced or absent, whereas some similar conditions may show heightened reflex activity. Unlike GBS, which advances quickly, conditions like CIDP exhibit a more prolonged course with recurring episodes of weakness.
How To Distinguish GBS From Other Similar Conditions
- 1. Hypokalemic Paralysis – Sudden muscle weakness, often following diarrhoea, with confirmed low potassium levels in blood tests.
- 2. Acute Transverse Myelitis (ATM) – Similar weakness but with a distinct sensory loss in certain areas, often accompanied by back pain and bladder dysfunction. MRI scans help confirm the diagnosis.
- 3. Critical Illness Neuropathy – Occurs in severely ill patients with multi-organ failure, leading to weakness primarily in the limbs and trunk.
- 4. Botulism – Weakness typically starts from the head and moves downward, often affecting vision and swallowing.
- 5. Tick Paralysis – Progressive paralysis that may include facial muscle weakness, often linked to a recent tick bite.
- 6. Myasthenia Gravis – Muscle weakness fluctuates throughout the day and improves with rest, often affecting eye and facial muscles. It is confirmed through blood tests.
- 7. Spinal Cord Injury – Sudden weakness depending on the injury site, typically accompanied by sensory changes and bowel/bladder dysfunction.
- 8. Toxic Neuropathies – Exposure to toxins like lead or arsenic can cause nerve damage, with symptoms varying based on the specific toxin involved.
- 9. Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) – Similar to GBS but with a slower progression, often requiring long-term treatment.
Diagnostic Tests For Accurate Identification
- Lumbar Puncture (CSF Analysis): GBS is often identified by elevated protein levels in cerebrospinal fluid, with a normal white blood cell count.
- Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) and Electromyography (EMG): These tests help determine whether the nerve damage is due to axonal loss or demyelination.
- MRI and CT Scans: These imaging techniques assist in ruling out other neurological conditions, such as spinal cord lesions or brain abnormalities.
As GBS can lead to severe complications, recognising its symptoms early and differentiating it from similar conditions is crucial. Prompt diagnosis and medical intervention can significantly improve patient outcomes and prevent long-term disability. Given the recent cases in India, awareness and timely action remain key in managing this rare but serious neurological disorder.
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