Guillain-Barré Syndrome cases on rise in Pune: Experts warn of limb paralysis if left untreated; know risk factors

After the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) virus was detected in various parts of India, Pune city saw 59 cases of a rare neurological condition known as Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS).?

As the cases steadily see an uptick, people are left in fear, and due to this, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has advised PMC and nearby hospitals to make sure that prompt and early diagnosis is done.?

The number of suspected Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) patients rose to 59 on Wednesday, with 35 new cases reported in a single day, said the state health department. On Tuesday, as many as 24 cases were reported at various private hospitals.?

Among the affected patients, 39 are males and 20 are females, with 12 patients currently on ventilator support at various city hospitals, reported the?HT.?

Experts say most patients with GBS have a history of consuming outside food and water

The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) has sought information on the situation, and in response to the outbreak, the divisional commissioner, Chandrakant Pulkundwar, noted that the PMO is preparing to tackle the situation.?

On the other hand, Dr. Nina Borade, chief of health services for the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), stated that most patients admitted with the complaint have a history of consuming outside food or water.?

Due to this, these patients reported gastrointestinal issues that resolved quickly but also reported sudden weakness in them, which is also a key symptom of GBS.?

What is Guillain-Barré syndrome??

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare condition causing sudden numbness and muscle weakness impacting various body parts. “GBS happens when the immune system responds abnormally and attacks the peripheral nerves. It can be seen in people of all age groups. Those with GBS must seek timely intervention to be able to get timely treatment,” says Dr Pankaj Agarwal, Head of the Department of Neurology, Gleneagles Hospital Parel Mumbai.?

The cause of GBS is unclear, but a preceding infection can lead to excessive immunity and trigger nerve damage. Dr. Agarwal warns, “If left untreated, GBS can lead to breathing difficulties, limb paralysis, and swallowing and speech problems. The diagnosis is confirmed through neurological examination, including weakness and diminution or loss of deep tendon reflexes.”

Nerve conduction tests are an important test to confirm findings. Moreover, a lumbar puncture is often done to support the diagnosis. The treatment for GBS is either plasma exchange or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy. Good neurocritical care is needed to support recovery in this condition.

Risk factors of the Guillain-Barré syndrome and who is the most affected

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) can affect people of all ages, but it is commonly seen in children, adults, and older age groups. According to Dr. Jagdish Kathwate, Consultant Neonatologist & Paediatrician, Motherhood Hospital Kharadi Pune, “Children and teenagers are also reporting a surge in GBS cases. Risk factors are infections such as respiratory or gastrointestinal infections (like Campylobacter jejuni), certain viral infections like Epstein-Barr virus, Zika virus, or influenza, and, in rare cases, recent surgeries.”

While GBS is rare, it can lead to symptoms such as weakness, tingling, and, in severe cases, paralysis as well. Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the patients. Instead of fretting, patients shouldn't miss these crucial symptoms and visit the doctor.

Symptoms of Guillain-Barré Syndrome

• Muscular pain in the back or legs
• Paralysis of legs, arms, and facial muscles?
• Chest muscle weakness?
• Difficulty in speaking and swallowing
• Vision issues.