The Inspiring Story of a Relapsing Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) Patient

A 43 year old middle aged man presented with complaints of sudden onset of weakness and tingling numbness of both lower limbs rendering him unable to get out of bed and walking without support. He was admitted under the care of Dr. Manali Bhattacharya (Consultant Medicine). Within the next 6 - 8 hours of admission the gentleman lost complete power of both lower limbs followed by both hands as well. Being completely bedridden, he expressed his inabilty to pass both urine and stool followed by difficulty swallowing and blurring of vision. He had been immediately shifted to the ICU and after a thorough evaluation diagnosed as GBS (Guillain Barre Syndrome). A multispecialty approach was established consisting of General Physician, Neurologist and Intensivist. The gentleman was a known case of Type ll DM with a history of Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) a decade ago where he had needed intubation and mechanical ventilation for three weeks.

It is indeed a remarkable tale of courage and recovery where the gentleman battled a rare and life-threatening condition, relapsing Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS). Relapse of Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) happens in only 2 - 5% of cases. His journey, marked by uncertainty, hope and ultimate triumph is a testament to the power of timely intervention, advanced medical care and human spirit.

Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system of the body mistakenly attacks peripheral nervous system leading to the paralysis of muscles. It rarely affects the bladder and bowel function. Severe cases involve paralysis of both upper and lower limbs and respiratory muscles, hampering breathing and swallowing of food, thus, endangering life.

Soon after the diagnosis, Intravenous Immunoglobulin Therapy (IVIg) was started and continued for 5 days. IVIg works in Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) by modulating the immune system and blocking the harmful autoantibodies that attack the peripheral nerves. This helps to reduce the Nerve damage, speed up recovery and lessen the severity of symptoms. Each dose of Intravenous Immunoglobulin Therapy (IVIg) brought gradual improvement in limb strength and restoration of bladder and bowel function. Throughout the critical phase, the ICU team including intensivist, resident doctors, nurses provided the much needed support. A daily physiotherapy session was conducted to aid recovery. The team’s proactive approach and close monitoring played a pivotal role in the recovery process. After securing the normal respiratory and swallowing function, the patient was shifted to general ward and discharged within a week with an advice to continue physiotherapy sessions.

The story of this gentleman stands as an example of hope for others facing similar challenges. His recovery was made possible by the dedication and expertise of multi-speciality team approach from internist, neurologist, intensivist and physiotherapist and above all, an unwavering support of his family and his own indomitable spirit. It is a reminder of how advanced medical care and timely intervention can transform lives in a positive way.