Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) Flashcards

1
Q

What is GBS?

A

Temporary inflammation and demyelination of the peripheral nerves (myelin sheaths)

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2
Q

Etiology?

A

Exact etiology is unknown

Hypothesized to be an autoimmune response to a previous:
- respiratory infection
- influenza
- surgery
- vaccinations
- Epstein-Barr Syndrome

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3
Q

Signs and Symptoms

A

Motor weakness in a (Distal to Proximal) fashion

“The Three D’s”
- Absence of DTRs
- Dysarthria
- Dysphagia

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4
Q

When does the level of disability peak?

A

2-4 weeks after onset

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5
Q

Treatment

A

Medical Management:
- Hospitalization

Pharmacological Management:
- immunosuppressive medications
- analgesic/narcotic medications

-Plasmapheresis

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6
Q

What is the another term for Guillain-Barre Syndrome

A

Acute Polyneuropathy

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7
Q

What is the “peak frequency” of GBS? (age range)

A

Young Adults

and

Adults between their 5th and 8th decades

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8
Q

What is the distribution pattern of motor weakness?

A

Distal to Proximal

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9
Q

Is the motor weakness Symmetrical or Asymmetrical?

A

Distal Symmetrical Motor Weakness

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10
Q

How long does recovery typically take in post GBS?

A

Gradual recovery in months to years

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11
Q

What laboratory or imaging studies would confirm diagnosis?

A

CSF sample: containing high protein levels and little to no lymphocytes

Electromyography: resulting in abnormal and slowed nerve conduction

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12
Q

During the acute stage of GBS, 30% of patients require what intervention?

A

Mechanical Ventilation

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13
Q

Upon admission to a hospital what should PT focus on?

A
  • passive ROM
  • positioning
  • light exercise
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14
Q

What should a PT avoid during the acute stage of GBS?

A

overexertion and fatigue, to avoid exacerbation of symptoms

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15
Q

What will patients typically initially present with?

A

Patient will initially present with a distal symmetrical motor weakness

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16
Q

What sensory impairment may a patient present with?

A

Sensory impairments
- mild distal sensory impairments
- Transient Paresthesia’s.

17
Q

What can be life threatening for patients with GBS?

A

Respiratory paralysis
- can be life threatening

18
Q

Which gender is mostly affected?

A

Males

19
Q

Which race is GBS more likely in? Caucasians or Africans Americans?

A

Caucasians

20
Q

In which fashion does recovery usually follow?

A

Proximal to Distal