Guillain-Barre Syndrome Outbreak in Pune

Sub: Sci

Sec: Health

Why in News

A Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) outbreak has been reported in Pune district, prompting the Union Health Ministry to deploy a seven-member team to support the Maharashtra government in managing the situation.

Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS):

GBS is a rare neurological disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis.
It often leads to symptoms such as numbness in limbs, weakness, or prolonged diarrhoea.
Bacterial and viral infections are common triggers, as they weaken the immune system.
The exact cause of GBS is unknown. It is often preceded by an infection, such as respiratory or gastrointestinal infections.
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, nerve conduction studies, and analysis of cerebrospinal fluid obtained through lumbar puncture.
Treatment options include intravenous immunoglobulin therapy and plasmapheresis (plasma exchange).
Recovery can take weeks to years, with about a third of patients experiencing some permanent weakness.
Globally, the mortality rate is approximately 7.5%.
GBS is rare, affecting 1 to 2 individuals per 100,000 annually.
Miller Fisher syndrome is a variant of GBS characterized by eye muscle paralysis, coordination problems, and absent reflexes.