Speaking about the researches on Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), Child Health and Diseases Specialist Dr ?hsan Ba?p?nar said, "It is a rare but serious neurological disease and is seen in approximately 1 in every 100 thousand people in the society. GBS is a condition in which the immune system attacks nerve cells and the mortality rate is around 4-7 per cent. This syndrome, which can be seen in all age groups, usually starts suddenly and can progress rapidly."
Stating that the exact cause of Guillain-Barre Syndrome is unknown, Child Health and Diseases Specialist Dr ?hsan Ba?p?nar from BHT CLINIC Istanbul Tema Hospital said, "It is thought to occur when the immune system recognises nerve cells as foreign and attacks them. Viral or bacterial infections (Campylobacter jejuni), some vaccines, surgical interventions or immune system disorders, usually 1-2 weeks before the disease, are among the triggers of this syndrome."
It can be confused with other neurological diseases
Prof. Dr. Ba?p?nar pointed out that although GBS usually progresses slowly, it can rapidly worsen in some cases and can be life-threatening. Stating that the main symptoms include muscle weakness, loss of reflexes, difficulty in swallowing and walking, muscle pain, cardiac and respiratory arrest, Dr Ba?p?nar emphasised that the diagnosis process may be difficult at the beginning as these symptoms may be confused with other neurological diseases.
Early diagnosis is of great importance in treatment
"Since GBS is diagnosed by physical examination and advanced tests, these tests include electromyography (EMG) and lumbar function (lumbar fluid sampling). These methods play a critical role in determining the effects on the nervous system and the course of the disease." Dr Ba?p?nar said, "Early diagnosis is of great importance in the treatment of Guillain-Barre Syndrome. Treatment is usually performed with plasma exchange (plasmapheresis) and intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) applications. These treatment methods aim to reduce the damage caused by the immune system to nerve cells and reduce the risk of death."
Dr Ba?p?nar said, "The healing process of GBS can take months or even years. Some patients may experience permanent damage and may result in death. Early diagnosis and treatment can positively affect the course of the disease."
