Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) and Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP)
At the Neurology & Neuromuscular Care Center, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of complex peripheral nerve disorders, including Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) and Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP). These immune-mediated neuropathies can progress rapidly or develop gradually over time, making early evaluation and expert management critical. Most patients will recover well and do not have any long-term sequelae. However, some patients continue having weakness or relapses throughout life, which require long-term medications.
Our team provides advanced diagnostic testing, infusion therapies, long-term monitoring, and coordinated rehabilitation support to help patients regain strength, reduce relapses, and improve quality of life. We are recognized as a Center of Excellence for the care of these patients by the GBS/CIDP Foundation International. Dr. Castro is part of the Medical Advisory Board and the Board of Directors of the foundation.
What is GBS/CIDP?
Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) and Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) are autoimmune disorders that affect the peripheral nervous system — the network of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
In both conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerves (myelin), and sometimes the nerves themselves. This damage disrupts the transmission of signals between the brain and muscles, leading to weakness, numbness, and impaired reflexes.
GBS is typically acute and develops rapidly over days to weeks.
CIDP is the chronic counterpart, progressing over weeks to months and often following a relapsing or slowly progressive course.
What Causes GBS and CIDP?
Both GBS and CIDP are autoimmune conditions.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)
GBS often occurs after a triggering event such as:
A respiratory or gastrointestinal infection
Viral illness
Surgery
Certain vaccinations may increase risk very slightly (1-2 cases per million doses)
The immune system, activated to fight infection, mistakenly attacks peripheral nerves.
CIDP
CIDP is also immune-mediated, but its exact trigger is often unclear. Unlike GBS, CIDP is chronic and may involve ongoing immune attack on nerve roots and peripheral nerves.
In both conditions, nerve inflammation and demyelination impair nerve conduction, leading to weakness and sensory changes.
How Common is GBS and CIDP?
GBS is considered rare, affecting approximately 1 to 2 people per 100,000 each year in the United States. It can affect individuals of all ages.
CIDP is also rare, with an estimated prevalence of 1 to 9 people per 100,000. Because CIDP can mimic other neuropathies, it may sometimes be underdiagnosed.
What Are the First and Ongoing Symptoms of GBS/CIDP?
Early Symptoms of GBS
GBS typically begins with:
Tingling or numbness in the feet or hands
Weakness starting in the legs
Difficulty walking
Loss of reflexes
Symptoms often progress upward (ascending weakness) and can worsen over hours to days.
Symptoms of CIDP
CIDP symptoms develop more gradually and may include:
Progressive weakness in arms and legs
Numbness or reduced sensation
Loss of reflexes
Balance problems
Fatigue
How is GBS and CIDP Diagnosed?
Prompt and accurate diagnosis is essential, particularly in GBS, where symptoms may progress rapidly.
Diagnostic evaluation may include:
Comprehensive neurological examination
Nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG)
Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to assess cerebrospinal fluid
MRI imaging of nerve roots
Blood tests to rule out other causes of neuropathy
In GBS, elevated protein levels in cerebrospinal fluid with a normal white blood cell count is a classic finding. In CIDP, nerve conduction studies often show patterns of demyelination consistent with chronic disease.
How Do You Typically Treat GBS and CIDP?
Treatment for GBS
GBS often requires hospitalization for close monitoring. Treatment may include:
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)
Plasmapheresis (plasma exchange)
Respiratory support if needed
Physical therapy during recovery
These treatments help reduce the immune attack on the nerves and shorten recovery time.
Treatment for CIDP
Because CIDP is chronic, ongoing treatment may be required. Options include:
IVIG infusions
Corticosteroids
Immunosuppressive medications
Plasma exchange
Physical and occupational therapy
Disease modifying treatments including Fc Receptor inhibitors, B-complex inhibitors, etc.
At the Neurology and Neuromuscular Care Center, we provide infusion services, long-term neurological monitoring, and rehabilitation coordination to ensure patients receive comprehensive care. Early diagnosis and appropriate therapy can significantly improve strength, prevent nerve damage, and enhance long-term outcomes.
With expert management, many patients with GBS recover substantially, and individuals with CIDP can achieve meaningful disease control and improved quality of life.
Other Neurological Diseases we treat
Contact
Phone: (972) 982-7411
FAX: (972) 982-7610
Email: newpatient@neuromdcenter.com
Business Hours:
Monday – Friday
9AM- 5PM By Appointment Only
1651 Justin Rd.
Flower Mound, TX 75028
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