DefinePK

Abstract

Background: Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a autoimmune disease leading to ascending paralysis and areflexia. This condition often follows an infection or a triggering event, and understanding its preceding symptoms can help with early identification and treatment. Objective of this study was to explore the antecedent symptoms in Guillain-Barre syndrome, and to determine the most prevalent type of Guillain-Barré syndrome. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Neurology, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Islamabad from May 2023 to Feb 2024. Qualitative and quantitative data was collected. Demographic details, CSF study, autonomic dysfunction, Erasmus Guillain-Barré Respiratory Insufficiency Score (EGRIS), preceding symptoms and duration was prospectively collected from 94 patients meeting the inclusion criteria and analysed on SPSS-23. Chi-square test of association was applied taking p?0.05 as significant, and with a confidence interval of 95%. Results: The Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) were normal in 22% patients while abnormal in 78% patients. Out of the total, 70% presented with preceding symptoms [(respiratory 43%), (diarrhoea 19%), (flu 8%)]. There was significant association (p<0.05)] between Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) and GBS types. Whereas, no significant association was found between NCS and GBS preceding symptoms, duration of symptoms, CSF study, autonomic dysfunction, cranial nerve involvement, and EGRIS Score. Conclusion: Preceding symptoms were present in 70% of the cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome. Association of preceding symptoms with nerve conduction studies (NCS) facilitates timely intervention and optimizing patient management. In our study, AIDP was most prevalent type.
Pak J Physiol 2024;20(2):50-3