In November 2020, neurologists decided to conduct a study to ascertain whether there existed a correlation between Covid-19 and Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS). This followed the occurrence of GBS and related paralysis in some patients who suffered from Covid-19.
Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a rare auto-immune disorder and a prototype of post-infectious neuropathy. Generally, it develops within two to four weeks after an acute bacterial or viral infection. The syndrome has been primarily observed in the last stage of Covid-19 recovery or among completely recovered patients. It is found when the immune system attempts to kill Sars-CoV-2 and accidentally starts attacking the peripheral nervous system, which affects limb functions. A tingling or itching sensation in the skin, followed by muscle weakness, pain, and numbness are its first symptoms, which are likely to emerge first in the feet and hands. In severe cases, there may be reflex loss and paralysis.
Covid-19 is known to affect digestive, cardiac, and kidney functions, and may even have an indirect effect by triggering an immune response that can attack the body’s peripheral nervous system. It is still not clear if GBS is permanent in the Covid-19 cases, but such cases have been identified within 5 to 10 days of the onset of symptoms of covid-19. This is the reason why doctors recommend regular follow-ups by recovered patients.
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and sometimes plasma therapy is adopted to treat GBS patients. In case of severe complications, intensive care treatment or ventilator support is required.
Courtesy: Hindustan Times