A REVIEW ON GUILLAIN - BARRE SYNDROME

Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening inflammatory polyneuropathy characterized by progressive symmetrical flaccid paralysis. Though its exact cause remains unclear, it is often linked to infections and immune system triggers. Around 100,000 cases occur worldwide annually, with associations to infections such as dengue, Chikungunya, and Campylobacter jejuni. The condition damages peripheral nerves, leading to motor and sensory dysfunctions that can rapidly progress to severe complications, including respiratory failure, quadriplegia, and autonomic disturbances. GBS typically begins with muscle weakness, tingling, and difficulty walking. In severe cases, it can lead to total paralysis requiring ventilator support. The disease progresses through three phases: an initial acute phase, a plateau phase, and a prolonged recovery phase lasting weeks to years. Recovery is often slow, with some patients experiencing significant residual disabilities, such as difficulty walking independently for six months to a year. About 5% of affected individuals succumb to the disease. There are multiple variants of GBS, including Acute Motor Axonal Neuropathy (AMAN), Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (AIDP), Miller Fisher Syndrome (MFS), and Acute Motor Sensory Axonal Neuropathy (AMSAN). Each subtype affects different aspects of the nervous system, leading to three symptoms such as facial weakness, swallowing difficulties, and clinical assessments include cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and electro diagnostic studies. However, the high cost of these therapies makes accessibility a challenge in lower-income regions. While there is no definitive cure, early diagnosis and appropriate medical intervention can significantly improve outcomes. On-going research explores advanced treatments such as monoclonal antibodies and Al-driven diagnostic tools to enhance patient care and mitigate the impact of the disease. Keywords: Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), AIDP, AMSAN, AMAN, Monoclonal Antibodies