Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is an inflammatory disorder of the peripheral nerves that causes weakness and numbness in the legs and arms and can potentially lead to paralysis. It is rare, affecting 1-2 people per 100,000 annually in the US. While its exact causes are unknown, about half of GBS cases are preceded by a viral or bacterial infection. Diagnosis involves lumbar puncture, electromyography, and nerve conduction tests. Treatment focuses on plasmapheresis, intravenous immunoglobulin, medications, and physical therapy. Most patients recover fully but it may take a year or longer and some have lasting symptoms, though death is rare.

1. Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is an inflammatory disorder of the peripheral nerves. The peripheral nerves convey sensory information (e.g., pain, temperature) from the body to the brain and motor (i.e., movement) signals from the brain to the body. GBS is characterized by weakness and numbness or tingling in the legs and arms, and possible loss of movement and feeling in the legs, arms, upper body, and face.