Gullain-Barre Syndrome

Guillain-Barr� syndrome, the body's immune system attacks part of the peripheral nervous system. It has an annual incidence of 1/1000, 000 across several studies. It can occur at any age with a slight male preponderance and with seasonal variations. The syndrome can affect the nerves that control muscle movement as well as those that transmit pain, temperature and touch sensations. This can result in muscle weakness and loss of sensation in the legs and/or arms. Guillain-Barr� syndrome is often preceded by an infection. This could be a bacterial or viral infection. It is a rare condition, and while it is more common in adults and in males, people of all ages can be affected. Diagnosis is based on symptoms and findings on neurological examination including diminished or loss of deep-tendon reflexes. A lumbar puncture may be done for supportive information. In this case a 31-year-old male patient presented with sudden onset of weakness of bilateral lower and upper limbs, history of fever, loose stools and also with difficulty in swallowing. Neurological opinion was taken and was advised for intravenous immunoglobulin.