GB

Question 1

What is GB?

Answer 1

autoimmune attack of the peripheral nerve myelin, which leads to ascending, symmetrical weakness that can progress to paralysis

Question 2

What are the s/s?

Answer 2

Increasing muscle weakness to paralysis
Symmetrical & ascending progression
Stocking glove pattern affecting fingers & toes

Question 3

What happens in the acute stage of GB?

Answer 3

Symmetrical paresthesias/weakness/paralysis of LE
Moves up by Day 14
Resp failure 30-50% pts
Tingling, muscle cramps, stocking glove pattern

Question 4

How long does acute stage last in GB?

Answer 4

2-3wks

Question 5

How long does recovery take?

Answer 5

days to years

Question 6

How do s/s resolve?

Answer 6

From head to toe, opposite to how s/s progress

Question 7

Are there any residual effects?

Answer 7

70% have no s/s

Question 8

How do we dx GB?

Answer 8

Hx of viral illness in previous wks
CSF- high protein
EMG- lack of nervous stimulation
Nerve conduction study shows demyelination

Question 9

What meds are used for tx?

Answer 9

High dose IV immunoglobulin

Question 10

What are other forms of tx are used?

Answer 10

Plasmapheresis

Supportive tx