Disease hyena bar bulbar syndrome. Guillain-Barré syndrome: signs, diagnosis, treatment - Online diagnostics

At the beginning of the 20th century, researchers Barre, Guillain and Strohl described an unknown disease among soldiers of the French army. The fighters were paralyzed, they had no tendon reflexes, and there was a loss of sensitivity. Scientists examined the cerebrospinal fluid of patients and determined that it contained an increased protein content, while the number of other cells was absolutely normal. Based on the protein-cell association, as evidenced by the result of the analysis of spinal cerebrospinal fluid, Guillain-Barré syndrome was diagnosed, which differs from other demyelinating diseases nervous system fast course and favorable prognosis. The soldiers studied recovered in less than 2 months.

Subsequently, it turned out that Guillain-Barré syndrome is not as harmless as its discoverers described it. 20 years before the description of the disease appeared, the neuropathologist Landry observed patients with similar diseases. They also had flaccid paralysis, rapidly developing along the ascending nerve tracts. The rapid development of the disease led to death. The damage to the nervous system was called Landry's palsy. It was subsequently discovered that Guillain-Barré syndrome can also be fatal by shutting down muscle transmission in the diaphragm. But even in such patients, a laboratory picture of a protein-cell association in the cerebrospinal fluid of the spinal canal was observed.

Then they decided to combine both diseases and give the pathology one name - Landry-Guillain-Barre syndrome, and to this day neurologists use the proposed terminology. However, the international classification of diseases has registered only one name: Guillain-Barre syndrome or acute post-infectious polyneuropathy.

Guillain-Barré syndrome, causes

Since the disease develops after an infection, there is an assumption that it is this infection that causes the process of demylenization of nerve fibers. However, no direct infectious agent has yet been discovered. Antigen-antibody complexes are deposited on the myelinated fibers of nerve tissue, which cause myelin destruction.

Myelin sheaths are located along the nerve trunk at certain intervals. They play the role of capacitors, so nerve impulses are transmitted several tens of times faster and reach the addressee unchanged. When Guillain-Barre syndrome develops, its causes lie in a decrease in the capacity of the “capacitors”. As a result, nerve transmission is delayed and loses strength. The person intends to clench his fingers, but can only move them.

This is the essence of all demyelinating diseases of the nervous system. When a person develops Guillain-Barré syndrome, the transmission of impulses to major vital organs, such as:

• Cardiac muscle;
• Diaphragm;
• Swallowing muscles.

When these organs are paralyzed, the body's vital functions cease.

Guillain-Barré syndrome, symptoms

The paradox of the disease lies in the fact that with acute development, a successful outcome occurs in two thirds of patients, and with a chronic course, the prognosis is unfavorable.

Guillain-Barré syndrome begins after acute viral infections, most often respiratory. As complications after the flu, a person develops general weakness, which is transmitted to the arms and legs. Subsequently subjective feeling weakness progresses to flaccid paralysis. In acute cases, the following symptoms develop:

• Disappearance of the swallowing reflex;
• Paradoxical type of breathing - during inhalation, the abdominal wall does not expand, but, on the contrary, collapses;
• Sensory impairment distal sections limbs like “gloves” and “stockings”.

In severe cases, breathing is cut off due to paralysis of the diaphragm.

When primary chronic Guillain-Barré syndrome develops, symptoms increase slowly over several months, but at the peak of manifestation they are difficult to treat. As a result, the effects of paralysis remain for the rest of your life.

Clinical course of Guillain-Barré syndrome

During the disease there are 3 stages:

• Prodromal;
• razgara;
• Exodus.

The prodromal period is characterized by general malaise, muscle pain in the arms and legs, and a slight increase in temperature.

During the height of the phase, all the symptoms characteristic of Guillain-Barre syndrome appear, which reach the peak of their development towards the end of the phase.

The outcome stage is characterized by a complete absence of signs of any infection, but is manifested only by neurological symptoms. The disease ends either with complete restoration of all functions or with disability.

Guillain-Barré syndrome, treatment

In case of acute onset, especially when Guillain-Barre syndrome develops in children, resuscitation measures are the first priority. Timely connection of an artificial respiration device saves the patient’s life.

A long stay in the intensive care unit requires additional treatment, bedsores are prevented and infections are combated, including hospital-acquired ones.

The uniqueness of Guillain-Barré disease lies in the fact that with adequate artificial ventilation of the lungs, regeneration of the myelin sheaths occurs without any medication.

Modern methods of treating Guillain-Barré syndrome, in children in particular, involve plasmapheresis. Purification of blood plasma from autoimmune complexes prevents the progression of demyelination of nerve fibers and significantly shortens the period of artificial ventilation.

Currently, Guillain-Barré syndrome can be treated with immunoglobulin infusions. The method is expensive, but effective. During the recovery period, physiotherapy methods, physical therapy and massage are used.

Video from YouTube on the topic of the article:

Guillain-Barré syndrome is an acute form of progressive inflammatory polyneuropathy, which is characterized by muscle weakness and polyneuritic sensitivity disorder. The disease is also called idiopathic polyneuritis in acute form, Landry's palsy or inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy. The disease is a representative of autoimmune abnormalities. Typically, pathology has specific signs that make it possible to recognize it at the earliest early stages development and start adequate treatment in a timely manner. It has been proven that more than 80% of patients have a favorable prognosis and are completely cured.

autoimmune demyelination of nerves in Guillain-Barré syndrome

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is observed in all age groups, but people aged 35-50 years are especially susceptible to it, with equal frequency in both women and men. The incidence per 100,000 people ranges from 0.4 to 4 cases.

Causes of the disease

Scientists different countries They have been studying the syndrome for 100 years, but they still cannot fully figure out the exact reasons that provoke the occurrence of the disease.

It is believed that the appearance and development of the anomaly occurs due to a disruption of the patient’s immune system. When a person is completely healthy, when foreign cells enter the body, the immune system begins to fight the infection, rejecting all its dangerous elements. The patient is recovering. With GBS, the body begins to confuse “friends and foes”: the patient’s neurons are perceived as foreign and are subject to “attack.” When the nervous system is destroyed, a syndrome occurs.

What causes disturbances in the functioning of the immune system itself is not completely known. Experts include the most common reasons:

• Traumatic brain injuries. A strong blow to the head, any damage to it, as well as swelling, tumors or hemorrhages in the brain can be the main factor in the development of the syndrome. That is why, when a patient consults a specialist, first of all, the doctor must find out about the presence of any traumatic brain injuries.
• Infections. Recent viral infections greatly weaken a person's immune system, thereby increasing the likelihood of developing GBS. The body's defense mechanism perceives neurons as an infection and, with the help of white blood cells, continues to kill them. In this case, the syndrome appears one to three weeks after the infectious disease.
• Allergies. The disease often develops in allergy sufferers, for example, after chemotherapy, vaccination against polio and diphtheria, or severe surgical interventions.
• Genetic predisposition. Most diseases are inherited, and Guillain-Barre syndrome is no exception. If someone in the family has already suffered from a pathology, then most likely it will occur in their descendants. In this case, you need to especially monitor your health: take care of your head and try not to let infectious diseases.

IN childhood the syndrome develops extremely rarely. The disease may be congenital or acquired. Any anomalies of intrauterine development can lead to the development of the syndrome:

1. Preeclampsia;
2. Frequent use of medications during pregnancy;
3. Availability autoimmune diseases at the mother's;
4. Long-term infections during pregnancy;
5. Using drugs, drinking alcohol or smoking.

Acquired reasons include:

1. Passive smoking of a child;
2. Hormonal imbalances in the body;
3. Vaccinations;
4. Self-medication;
5. Metabolic disease;
6. Neurological disorders;
7. Development of tumor processes.

Symptoms

The disease can manifest itself in 3 forms:

• Spicy. All signs of the disease appear simultaneously within 1-2 days.
• Sub-adjust. The incubation period is 15 to 20 days.
• Sluggish, chronic. This is one of the most dangerous forms, as it is practically untreatable.

The first symptoms of GBS in both children and adults resemble infection with a common viral respiratory infection:

1. Aches in bones, joints;
2. Hyperthermia;
3. Severe weakness;
4. Inflammation of the upper respiratory tract;
5. Numbness of the limbs;
6. Sometimes patients are bothered by various gastrointestinal disorders.

In addition to the general signs, there are also more obvious ones:

• Weakness of the limbs. Due to the destruction of nerve cells, there is a decrease or complete loss of sensitivity in the muscle area. At first, pain appears only in the lower legs, then discomfort affects the hands and feet. The patient is bothered by tingling and numbness in the fingers. In severe cases, coordination of movements is impaired: it becomes difficult for a person to independently hold a pen or write with the affected limb. It is worth noting that the symptoms of the disease appear symmetrically: 2 arms or legs are simultaneously affected.
• Enlargement of the abdomen, which is noticeable even visually. A protruding abdomen is one of the main indicators of the presence of the disease. This occurs due to the fact that the patient’s breathing changes to the abdominal type due to a weakening of the diaphragm.
• Incontinence. A person with GBS has impaired healthy functioning Bladder, urine begins to flow out involuntarily.
• Difficulty swallowing. The swallowing reflex is impaired due to weakened pharyngeal muscles. In this case, the patient may even choke on saliva. The muscles of the mouth gradually weaken, which leads to discomfort while chewing food.

Guillain-Barré syndrome affects almost all organ systems, so unreasonable hypertension, tachycardia or banal visual impairment may be the first, albeit hidden, sign of the development of pathology.

How dangerous is the course of the syndrome?

Usually the anomaly develops slowly over 2-3 weeks. First, there is a slight weakness in the joints, which intensifies over time and really begins to cause discomfort to the patient.

Immediately after tingling, in the acute course of the disease, general malaise and weakness in the shoulder and hip regions occur. After a few hours, breathing difficulties appear. In this case, it is imperative to seek help from a hospital. Typically, the patient is immediately connected to an artificial respiration system, and then given the necessary medication and physiotherapeutic treatment.

In the acute form of the disease, the pathology can completely paralyze any limb on the second or third day.

Also, in the absence of timely treatment, the patient faces:

1. Decreased immunity;
2. Respiratory failure;
3. Inactivity of joints;
4. Peripheral paralysis;
5. Problems of adaptation in society;
6. Difficulty in living;
7. Disability;
8. Death.

Diagnosis of the disease

In order to diagnose a patient with GBS, several aspects need to be clarified:

• When was the last time a person was sick in any way? viral disease. It has been proven that in 80% of cases the syndrome occurs due to recent infections.
• Does the patient take medications currently and if so, which ones. They will also help cause the development of GBS.
• How long ago the patient was vaccinated against any diseases.
• Does the patient suffer from autoimmune or tumor diseases?
• Has the person undergone surgery recently?
• Whether there were serious injuries to any part of the body.

The following studies should also be carried out:

1. General blood and urine analysis;
2. Blood chemistry;
3. Serological and virological examinations;
4. Cerebrospinal fluid examination;
5. Magnetic resonance imaging;
6. Electrocardiography;
7. Registration of electrical activity of muscles;
8. X-ray or ultrasound of the affected area;
9. External respiration examination;
10. Study of basic vital signs.

Muscle weakness simultaneously in several limbs and tendon areflexia can become another a clear sign Guillain-Barre syndrome. This also includes various disorders in the pelvic area, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, asymmetries of paresis and sensitivity disorders.

Differential diagnosis

Despite the fact that the symptoms of GBS are similar to those of many other diseases (diphtheria, porphyria, transverse myelitis, botulism and myasthenia), they still need to be distinguished for further correct treatment. When making a differential diagnosis, the following factors should be taken into account:

• If polio is suspected, it is necessary to collect data from an epidemiological study, take into account the symptoms of gastrointestinal tract, identify high cytosis in the cerebrospinal fluid, asymmetry of the lesion and the absence of sensory impairment. The diagnosis can be confirmed using serological or virological analysis.
• Polyneuropathy is characterized by the appearance of psychopathological signs, as well as pain in the pelvic and abdominal areas. Deviation of the main indicators from the norm in the urine also indicates the development of the disease.
• Transverse myelitis accompanies dysfunction of the pelvic organs and the absence of damage to the nerves of the skull.
• Symptoms of the anomaly can be confused with cerebral infarction. But in this case, the pathology affects the body in a few minutes and often leads to coma. MRI will help determine the exact cause of the dysfunction of body systems.
• Botulism is characterized by the absence of sensitivity disorders and any changes in the cerebrospinal fluid.

Treatment

Patients diagnosed with GBS must be hospitalized in a hospital. In approximately 30% of cases, mechanical ventilation is necessary. Pathology therapy is performed at the following levels:

1. Reanimation;
2. Symptomatic;
3. Blood purifying;
4. Drug;
5. Muscular-restorative;
6. Preventative.

Resuscitation therapy

If the anomaly is in acute form, resuscitation treatment is carried out, which is aimed at relieving symptoms:

• The patient is connected to an artificial respiration system;
• A catheter is used to remove urine;
• A tracheal tube and probe are installed if there are problems with swallowing.

Symptomatic therapy

This type of treatment is carried out using various medications:

1. Antihypertensive drugs: “Anaprilin”, “Metaprolol”;
2. Antibiotic therapy: “Norfloxacin”;
3. Drugs that help stabilize heart rate and blood pressure: Propranolol, Anaprilin (for tachycardia), Piracetam (for bradycardia);
4. Low molecular weight heparin: “Hemapaxan”, “Certoparin”;
5. Pain-relieving drugs – NSAIDs or Gabapentin, Pregabalin;
6. Antipyretics, when the temperature rises above 38 degrees: “Ibuklin”, “Next”;
7. Laxatives: Bisacodyl, Laxatin.

Plasmapheresis

One of the most effective procedures, aimed at treating GBS, is hardware blood purification - plasmapheresis. It helps stop the autoimmune process in the body. Indicated for severe and moderate disease. Usually about 4-6 operations are performed with a break of one day. Instead of plasma, a special isotonic solution of sodium or albumin is injected into the blood, through which the blood is cleansed and the functioning of all body systems is normalized.

Surgical treatment of the syndrome

If mechanical ventilation has been carried out for more than 7-10 days, a tracheostomy - an artificial windpipe - should be applied. In severe cases, a gastrostroma may be required - an opening in the stomach, surgically created for feeding the patient.

Non-drug therapy with folk remedies

Cure GBS folk remedies impossible. But it is quite possible to cope with some of its symptoms:

• Fever. It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids and ventilate the room. Tea with lemon, infusions with different berries and dried fruits: cranberries, strawberries, currants, blueberries, raspberries and dried apricots will help lower the temperature. You can brew linden blossom, chamomile, St. John's wort, aspen buds, mint and thyme - leave for half an hour, then drink in small sips.
• Aching bones. Lingonberry tea, a compress of fresh cabbage leaves, horseradish and burdock, baths with pine extract or decoctions of medicinal herbs will help to cope with it.
• Weakness. Doctors recommend breathing fresh air and ventilating the room as often as possible. You should try to eat more proteins. You also need food rich in vitamins and microelements. And sweet strong tea or chocolate will help lift your spirits.

Rehabilitation

Due to the fact that the syndrome affects not only neurons, but also the periosteal muscles, the patient will have to learn to walk again and perform simple movements of the limbs.

To normalize healthy muscle function, you can use traditional treatment, which includes:

1. Electrophoresis;
2. Trituration;
3. Radon baths;
4. Massage;
5. Baths to relax the body and muscle tone;
6. Masks and compresses with paraffin or beeswax;
7. Health-improving gymnastics.

During the recovery of the body, you should definitely go on a special therapeutic diet and at the same time take a course vitamin preparations. Complexes containing calcium, potassium, magnesium and vitamin B will be especially useful.

Patients with GBS should register with a neurologist and undergo regular preventive examinations. It is worth remembering that timely, high-quality therapy can return the patient to a full life.

Prevention of the syndrome

There is no special prevention of pathology. Doctors can only advise against any vaccinations for a year so that the disease does not return again. After this time, vaccination is permitted, but only if it is truly necessary.

You should also stop drinking alcohol, avoid overheating, hypothermia and reduce physical exercise. In this case, relapse of the disease is excluded.

Forecast

Most often, with Guillain-Barré syndrome, the prognosis is favorable. Typically, normal limb function is restored after 7-12 months in 85% of people. IN chronic form the disease progresses in 7-15% of cases. The fatality rate is approximately 5%. The cause of death may be respiratory failure, pneumonia or viral infections. But most often, all this can be prevented by contacting a specialist in time.

Video: lecture on Guillain-Barré syndrome

Video: Guillain-Barre syndrome in the program “Live Healthy”

Almost every person gets a cold from time to time or even catches a more serious viral infection and gets vaccinated. But after some time after recovery, it begins to seem that the symptoms are returning - the patient feels a loss of strength, aching joints, and an increase in temperature. The danger is that this may be signs of a serious illness - Guillain-Barré syndrome, sometimes leading to complete paralysis and death. What kind of disease is this and how to protect yourself from it?

General information

Guillain-Barré syndrome is an autoimmune lesion of the peripheral nervous system that can quickly develop muscle weakness, leading to paralysis. It often causes acute flaccid tetraparesis, which reduces the motor activity of the lower and upper extremities. In ICD-10, Guillain-Barré syndrome is designated by code G61.0 and is included in the group of inflammatory polyneuropathies.

Guillain-Barré syndrome is an autoimmune disorder of the peripheral nervous system.

There are two types of classification of GBS - according to the form of the disease and according to its severity. According to the first indicator, the following types of syndrome are distinguished:

• AIDP, also called acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. This is the most common form - it affects from 65 to 90% of patients;
• Acute axogonal neuropathies of a motor or motor-sensory nature affect 5 to 20% of patients. In medical practice they are designated OMAN and OMSAN, respectively;
• 2-3% develop Miller-Fisher syndrome, approximately the same number of people have the paragenetic form of GBS;
• less than 1% falls on types such as sensory, pharyngo-cervico-brachial and paraparetic.

Based on severity, the following categories can be distinguished:

• Mild, in which the patient does not experience difficulties in self-care. Muscle weakness is almost not expressed, the person walks on his own.
• Moderate – the patient cannot walk 5 meters without additional help, his motor functions are impaired, and fatigue quickly sets in.
• Severe – the patient is no longer able to move, often cannot eat on his own and requires constant care.
• Extremely severe when a person requires life support.

The course of Guillain-Barré syndrome is divided into several stages of development:

• in the first, lasting 1-4 weeks, symptoms increase until an acute period occurs;
• on the second, the disease proceeds smoothly, the patient spends up to 4 weeks in this state;
• The recovery period is the longest and can last for several years. At this time, the person returns to normal and may even be completely cured.

Guillain-Barre syndrome can be cured

Causes of Guillain-Barre syndrome

There is still no reliable information about why this disease appears. IN modern medicine It is believed that the disease is caused by the consequences of past infections, including respiratory, cytomegalovirus, herpetic, and a person can also get sick due to previous mononucleosis and enteritis. Doctors explain this by saying that immune cells confuse virus-infected tissues with nerve endings and seek to destroy them.

Less commonly, the appearance of the syndrome is attributed to previous injuries (especially traumatic brain injuries), complications after operations, or the influence of systemic lupus, malignant tumors or HIV.

Another risk group consists of people with a hereditary predisposition. If you have a family with the syndrome, then it is better to take care of yourself - avoid infections and injuries.

Other reasons are possible, but it is much more important not to determine where the disease came from, but to notice its first manifestations and begin treatment on time.

Symptoms of Guillain-Barré syndrome

It is not easy to identify the first manifestations of GBS; at first they are quite similar to the signs of acute infectious diseases. Specific indicators appear only at later stages. Typically, the initial symptoms of Guillain-Barré syndrome include the following:

• the temperature rises sharply to very high, sometimes subfebrile;
• goosebumps and tingling sensations are felt at the tips of the fingers;

One of the symptoms of the disease is a sharp rise in temperature

• the patient feels muscle pain;
• Over time, weakness appears and the patient loses strength.

As soon as you see these symptoms either in yourself or someone you love, contact your doctor immediately. Every minute lost increases the risk of paralysis and even death.

Complications associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome

The disease has a huge impact on the functioning of the human body. Its occurrence may be associated with the following life disorders:

• difficulty breathing and the resulting lack of oxygen;
• pain and numbness in different parts of the body;
• disorders in the intestines and genitourinary system caused by weakening of smooth muscles;
• the formation of a large number of blood clots;
• heart problems and blood pressure fluctuations;
• Bedsores appear in bedridden patients.

For each of the complications should be applied symptomatic treatment, aimed at improving the patient’s condition and bringing the body back to normal.

Fluctuations in blood pressure may occur

Manifestations of Guillain-Barré syndrome in children

Adults are more prone to developing GBS, especially after forty years. In children, it is much less common, but is characterized by the same symptoms, supplemented by paralysis of the eyes, the absence of some reflexes and uncoordinated muscle function. Guillain-Barré syndrome in children often does not cause an increase in temperature, which complicates the diagnosis and leads to complications.

Diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome

First of all, the doctor collects a complete history of the disease, and pays attention to both the presence or absence of the causes of the disease, as well as the identified symptoms - the speed of their manifestation, the presence of pain and weakness, and sensitivity disorders.

The next stage - a physical examination - should provide answers to questions about the patient’s clarity of consciousness, absence or decreased reflexes, the presence of pain, and vegetative problems. The lesions should be symmetrical and get worse over time.

At the third stage, laboratory research. The patient donates blood to biochemical analysis, as well as the presence of autoantibodies and antibodies to past diseases. A lumbar puncture is often prescribed to general analysis cerebrospinal fluid.

The patient needs to donate blood for a biochemical analysis

Clinical recommendations for determining Guillain-Barré syndrome involve instrumental diagnostics. The patient may be prescribed electromyography, which shows the speed of signal movement along the nerves, and a neurophysiological study. It tests the functioning of the long nerves (sensory and motor) in the arms and legs. At least four of both are examined. The results of the two methods are compared, and a decision is made to make a diagnosis.

Treatment of Guillain-Barré syndrome

There are two different systems of therapy that perfectly complement each other - symptomatic and specific. The first is to relieve the effects of the disease on the body - helping digestion, caring for the body and eyes, supporting breathing, and controlling heart function. Such care should protect the patient from further deterioration of the condition and complications.

Specific therapy should help the patient return to normal. There are several methods:

1. Treatment of Guillain-Barré syndrome by intravenous administration of immunoglobulin. This drug is especially important for those patients who cannot walk.
2. Plasmapheresis can speed up recovery in moderate to severe cases of illness. For light form it is not relevant. Removing large amounts of plasma helps normalize immune function.

An important nuance is that in no case should you combine both types of therapy for simultaneous use, as this can give unpredictable and dangerous results.

Plasmapheresis in the treatment of Guillain-Barré syndrome

Recovery after GBS

Guillain-Barre syndrome causes harm in both nerve endings, as well as other tissues of the body. The patient often needs comprehensive rehabilitation, which should restore motor activity and the necessary skills in everyday life. For this purpose, massage, electrophoresis, relaxing baths are usually used, cold and hot shower to improve muscle tone, physiotherapy, therapeutic exercises and much more. All this will give the patient the opportunity to return to a full life and no longer remember the syndrome.

Preventing the return of the syndrome

There are no special techniques that can protect against relapse of GBS. But by following simple recommendations, you can at least reduce the risk of disease:

• refuse vaccination for at least six months;
• do not visit countries where there have been outbreaks of the Zika virus or other dangerous infections;
• visit neurologists and rehabilitation specialists at the clinic regularly;
• Temporary disability may be issued to reduce possible stress at work.

Forecast for the future

The mortality rate for GBS is quite low - only up to 5%. It is caused by the most severe manifestations of the syndrome - weakened breathing, immobilization and associated complications - pneumonia, pulmonary embolism and sepsis. The older the patient, the higher the chance of death.

Most people - about 85% - will make a full recovery and return to a full life. Moreover, only some of them will experience the disease again; the rest will leave it in the past forever.

WHO about the syndrome

The World Health Organization is taking a number of measures to reduce the incidence and increase the number of recoveries. It improves surveillance of epidemics of viral infections, in particular Zika, makes recommendations for therapy, and supports GBS research programs around the world.

Guillain-Barre syndrome is a serious disease, but even if you have been diagnosed with it, do not despair. Timely diagnosis and comprehensive treatment will quickly put you back on your feet, literally and figuratively. Enjoy life, be healthy and take care of yourself.

One of the serious diseases of a neurological nature is Guillain-Barre syndrome, when the immune system changes polarity and begins to kill its own cells. This pathological process leads to autonomic dysfunction. The disease is characterized by pronounced clinical picture, which allows you to identify it in a timely manner and begin therapy.

Description of the disease

Some pathologies develop in the form of a secondary immune response to the source of infection. They are accompanied by deformation of neurons and disruption of nervous regulation. Among such ailments, the most severe course is autoimmune polyneuropathy (Guillain-Barré syndrome, or GBS).

The disease is characterized by numerous inflammatory processes, destruction of the protective layer of nerves peripheral system. As a result, rapidly progressing neuropathy occurs, accompanied by paralysis in the muscles of the limbs. The disease usually occurs in an acute form and develops against the background of previous colds or infectious pathologies. With proper treatment, the chances of full recovery increase.

Historical reference

At the beginning of the 20th century, researchers Guillén, Barre and Strohl described a previously unknown disease in French soldiers. The fighters were paralyzed and there was loss of sensation in their limbs. A group of scientists examined the cerebrospinal fluid of patients. In it, they found an increased protein content while the number of other cells was normal. Based on the protein-cell association, Guillain-Barre syndrome was diagnosed, which differed from other pathologies of the nervous system of a demyelinating nature in its rapid course and positive prognosis. After 2 months, the soldiers fully recovered.

Subsequently, it turned out that this pathology is not as harmless as its discoverers described it. Approximately 20 years before the disclosure of information about her, the neurologist Landry monitored the condition of patients with a similar clinical picture. Patients also experienced paralysis. Fast development pathological process led to death. It later became known that the disease diagnosed in French soldiers could also lead to death in the absence of adequate treatment. However, in such patients a pattern of protein-cell association in the cerebrospinal fluid was observed.

After some time, a decision was made to combine the two ailments. They were given one name that is still used today - Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Reasons for the development of pathology

This disease has been known to science for more than 100 years. Despite this, all the factors that provoke its occurrence have not yet been clarified.

It is assumed that the pathology develops against the background of disturbances in the functioning of the immune system. When in the body healthy person infection penetrates, a protective reaction is triggered and a fierce fight against viruses and bacteria begins. In the case of this syndrome, the immune system perceives neurons as foreign tissue. The immune system begins to destroy the nervous system, as a result of which pathology develops.

Why such disruptions occur in the functioning of the body’s defenses is a little-studied question. Common trigger factors include the following:

1. Traumatic brain injuries. Mechanical damage leading to brain swelling or tumor formation is especially dangerous.
2. Viral infections. The human body is able to cope with many bacteria on its own. With frequent viral diseases or long-term therapy, the immune system begins to weaken. Prolonged treatment and use of strong antibiotics increases the risk of developing Guillain-Barré syndrome.
3. Hereditary predisposition. If close relatives of the patient have already had to deal with this pathology, he automatically falls into the risk group. Minor injuries and infectious diseases can act as a source of illness.

Other reasons are also possible. The syndrome is diagnosed in people with allergies who have undergone chemotherapy or complex surgery.

What symptoms indicate illness?

Neuropathology Guillain-Barré is distinguished by the symptoms of three forms of disease development:

• Acute when symptoms appear within a few days.
• Subacute, when the pathology “swings” from 15 to 20 days.
• Chronic. Due to the inability to make a timely diagnosis and prevent the development of serious complications, this form is considered the most dangerous.

The primary symptoms of the syndrome resemble a viral respiratory infection. The patient's temperature rises, weakness appears throughout the body, the upper Airways. In some cases, the onset of pathology is accompanied by gastrointestinal disorders.

Doctors also identify other symptoms that help distinguish Guillain-Barré syndrome from ARVI.

1. Weakness of the limbs. Deformed nerve cells provoke a decrease or complete loss of sensitivity muscle tissue. Initially, discomfort appears in the lower leg area, then the discomfort spreads to the feet and hands. It's a dull pain replaced by numbness. The person gradually loses control and coordination while performing simple actions (cannot hold a fork or write with a pen).
2. An increase in abdominal size is another sign of Guillain-Barré syndrome. Photos of patients with this diagnosis are presented in the materials of this article. The patient is forced to adjust his breathing from the upper to the abdominal type. As a result, the stomach increases in size and protrudes forward.
3. Difficulty swallowing. The muscles weakening every day interfere with the swallowing reflex. It becomes increasingly difficult for a person to eat, and he may choke on his own saliva.
4. Incontinence.

This pathology, as it develops, affects all systems internal organs. Therefore, attacks of tachycardia, blurred vision and other symptoms of body dysfunction cannot be ruled out.

Clinical course of the disease

During this pathology, doctors distinguish three stages: prodromal, height and outcome. The first is characterized by general malaise, a slight increase in temperature and muscle pain. During the peak period, all the symptoms characteristic of the syndrome are observed, which as a result reach their peak. The outcome stage is characterized by the complete absence of any signs of infection, but is manifested by neurological disorders. The pathology ends either in the restoration of all functions or in complete disability.

Classification of GBS

Depending on which one predominates clinical symptom, Guillain-Barre syndrome is classified into several forms.

The first three are manifested by muscle weakness:

1. Acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. This is the classic form of the disease and is the most common.
2. Acute motor axonal neuropathy. During a conductivity study nerve impulses signs of damage to the axons that provide their nutrition are revealed.
3. Acute motor-sensory axonal neuropathy. During examination, in addition to axonal destruction, symptoms of muscle weakness are revealed.

There is another form of this disease, which differs in its clinical manifestations(Miller-Fisher syndrome). The pathology is characterized by double vision and cerebellar disorders.

Diagnostic measures

Diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome begins with questioning the patient, clarifying symptoms and collecting anamnesis. This disease is characterized by bilateral damage to the limbs and preservation of the functions of the pelvic organs. Of course, there are atypical symptoms, so differential diagnosis requires a number of additional studies:

• Electromyography (assessment of the speed of movement of impulses along nerve fibers).
• Spinal tap (a test that can be used to detect protein in the cerebrospinal fluid).
• Blood analysis.

It is important to differentiate the disease from oncological processes, encephalitis and botulism.

Why is Guillain-Barré syndrome dangerous?

Symptoms and treatment of the pathology may vary, but lack of treatment always leads to serious complications. The disease is characterized by gradual development. Only the appearance of weakness in the limbs forces the patient to seek help from a doctor. Usually 1-2 weeks pass until this moment.

This period of time allows you to consult with doctors and undergo the necessary examination. On the other hand, it threatens with incorrect diagnosis and complicated treatment in the future. Symptoms appear very slowly and are often perceived as the beginning of another pathology.

In its acute course, the syndrome develops so rapidly that within a day a person can be paralyzed most of the body. Then the tingling and weakness spread to the shoulders and back. The longer a patient hesitates and puts off visiting a doctor, the higher the likelihood that paralysis will remain with him forever.

Treatment options for GBS

It is important to hospitalize the patient in a timely manner, since in some cases Guillain-Barré syndrome has a rapid course and can lead to serious consequences. The patient's condition is kept under constant monitoring, and if it worsens, he is connected to a ventilator.

If the patient is bedridden, care must be taken to prevent bedsores. Protect yourself from muscle atrophy Various physiotherapeutic procedures help.

When stagnant processes in the body occur, bladder catheterization is used to drain urine. To prevent vein thrombosis, Heparin is prescribed.

Specific treatment options include intravenous administration of Immunoglobulin and plasmapheresis. Plasma replacement is a procedure in which the liquid portion of the blood is removed and replaced with salt water (saline). Intravenous administration“Immunoglobulin” allows you to strengthen the body’s defenses, which helps it more actively fight the disease. Both treatment options are particularly effective for initial stage development of the syndrome.

Rehabilitation after treatment

This disease causes irreparable damage not only to nerve cells, but also to the surrounding muscles. During the rehabilitation period, the patient has to relearn how to hold a spoon in his hand, walk and perform other actions necessary for a full-fledged existence. To restore muscle activity, traditional treatment is used (physiotherapy, electrophoresis, massage, exercise therapy, paraffin applications).

During rehabilitation, a health-improving diet and vitamin therapy are recommended to compensate for the deficiency of micro- and macroelements. Patients diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, the symptoms of which are described in this article, are registered with a neurologist. They should periodically undergo preventive examinations, the main task of which is to early identify the prerequisites for relapses.

Forecast and consequences

It usually takes 3 to 6 months for the body to fully recover. You should not expect a quick return to the usual rhythm of life. Many patients experience long-term effects of Guillain-Barré syndrome. The disease affects the sensitivity of the fingers and toes.

In approximately 80% of cases, previously lost functions return. Only 3% of patients remain disabled. Death is usually due to the lack of adequate therapy as a result of the development of heart failure or arrhythmia.

Preventive actions

Specific methods for preventing this disease have not been developed. General recommendations include giving up bad habits, a balanced diet, an active lifestyle and timely treatment all pathologies.

Let's sum it up

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a disease characterized by muscle weakness and areflexia. It develops against the background of nerve damage as a result of an autoimmune attack. This means that the body’s defenses perceive its own tissues as foreign and form antibodies against the membranes of its own cells.

The disease has its own characteristic symptoms, which allows you to recognize the disease in time and begin therapy. Otherwise, the likelihood of developing autonomic dysfunction and paralysis increases.