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Guillain-Barre Syndrome
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Tests
Patient history is important in diagnosis. The progression of ascending paralysis – starting with feet or hands and advancing upward - is a typical presentation. About 50% of cases also include a history of a recent mild infection or illness like a sore throat, a cold, the flu or diarrhea. Several tests are commonly used to diagnose or confirm the disease and, sometimes, to monitor recovery.
Nerve conduction velocity – tests the speed at which impulses travel through a nerve. The nerve conduction velocity test uses electrodes placed on the skin over peripheral nerves and measures the amount of time it takes for an impulse to travel between electrodes.
Electromyography (EMG) - measures the electrical activity of muscles fibers. The EMG test measures the electrical activity within muscle fibers by placing a needle electrode through the skin directly into the muscle and measuring the electrical activity of that muscle. It is usually done in conjunction with a nerve conduction velocity test.
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) evaluation – to identify the presence of increased protein. For this test, a needle is inserted into the spine between vertebrae and a small amount of fluid is withdrawn. While some protein is normally present, an increased amount without an increase in the white blood cells in the CSF may be indicative of GBS.
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Related Pages
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This article last reviewed on February 11, 2007.
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