Context:

Amid rising cases of Guillain Barre Syndrome, a man suspected to have the syndrome dies in Maharashtra.

More on the News 

• The deceased had symptoms of cold, and cough, and experienced breathing difficulties.
• The total number of GBS cases in Pune increased to 101, which included 68 males and 33 females. 
• The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare deployed a high-level multi-disciplinary team to Pune in Maharashtra to support the State health authorities.

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS)

• It is a rare neurological disorder in which a person’s immune system attacks the peripheral nerves, leading to muscle weakness that can progress to paralysis.
• The syndrome can affect the nerves that control muscle movement and those that transmit pain, temperature, and touch sensations. 
• This can result in muscle weakness, loss of sensation in the legs and/or arms, and problems swallowing or breathing.
• It is a rare condition (with an estimated incidence of 1/2 per 100,000 population), and while it is more common in adults and males, people of all ages can be affected.
• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), infection with the bacteria Campylobacter jejuni, which causes gastroenteritis (including symptoms of nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea), is one of the most common risk factors for GBS. 

Symptoms

• Weakness or tingling sensations usually start in the legs and can spread to the arms and face.
• The ability to speak, swallow, or chew may be affected in severe cases.
• Difficulty with eye muscles and vision
• Coordination problems and unsteadiness
• Abnormal heart rate or blood pressure
• Problems with digestion and/or bladder control.

Diagnosis

• A lumbar puncture or Electromyography (EMG) may be done for supportive information and treatment is generally based on symptoms.
• Nerve conduction velocity test (NCV): To measure the nerve's signal ability. In GBS, the signals traveling along the damaged nerves are slowed because of damage to the myelin sheath.
• Cerebrospinal fluid analysis: This fluid contains more protein and fewer immune cells in people with GBS.

Treatment of GBS

• Currently, there is no cure for GBS. However, some therapies can reduce its severity and shorten recovery time.