Causes
Acute idiopathic polyneuritis is an autoimmune syndrome, but it is not clear what causes it. In this condition, the immune system begins to destroy the material that surrounds the nerves, so the nerves can’t transmit signals efficiently. This causes muscles to lose their ability to respond to the brain’s messages.
One theory behind the cause of acute idiopathic polyneuritis is the presence of antibodies in the blood that may affect how the autoimmune system behaves. Antibodies are proteins that are made by the immune system to attack foreign substances that may threaten the body. But in the case of acute idiopathic polyneuritis, there may be antibodies in the blood that might cause the attack of nerves.
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. The following factors increase your chance of developing acute idiopathic polyneuritis. If you have any of these risk factors, tell your doctor:
Symptoms
If you experience any of these symptoms do not assume it is due to acute idiopathic polyneuritis. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions. If you experience any one of them, see your physician.
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Weakness or tingling in the legs that may spread to the arms and upper body
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Restricted muscle use
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Almost complete paralysis
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Problems breathing
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High or low blood pressure
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Abnormal heart rate
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include the following:
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:
Plasmapheresis
In plasmapheresis, or plasma exchange, whole blood is taken from your body. The plasma (clear, yellowish fluid portion of the blood) is removed along with the antibodies. The blood is the returned to the body, and the body replaces the plasma.
Immunoglobulin Therapy
Your doctor may give you high doses of immunoglobulin proteins through intravenous (IV) injections to lessen the immune attack on your nervous system.
Prevention
Since its cause is unclear, there is no known way to prevent acute idiopathic polyneuritis.
RESOURCES:
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/
Nemours Foundation
http://kidshealth.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Directory of Genetic Support Groups
http://www.lhsc.on.ca/programs/medgenet/guillb_c.htm
Canadian Institute for Health Information
http://www.cihi.ca/cihiweb/dispPage.jsp?cw_page=home_e
References:
Guillain-Barre syndrome. DynaMed website. Available at: http://dynamed101.epnet.com/Detail.aspx?id=116758. Accessed December 3, 2006.
Guillain-Barre syndrome fact sheet. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/gbs/detail_gbs.htm. Accessed December 3, 2006.
