Chennai: Iswarya Hospital, Chennai, has successfully treated a woman in her early 40s who was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare and serious autoimmune disorder that can cause rapidly progressing muscle weakness and can lead to respiratory failure. The Chennai resident developed sudden and rapidly progressing numbness and weakness in both lower limbs. Within a day, the symptoms progressed to involve her upper limbs as well, making it increasingly difficult for her to walk, lift her legs, or perform routine activities such as eating. Alarmed by the rapid progression of her symptoms, family sought immediate medical attention, enabling timely diagnosis and treatment.
On Arrival at Iswarya Hospital in April 2026, Dr Deepa Avadhani, Senior Consultant Neurologist, Iswarya Hospital examined the patient and found weakness in all four limbs of the patient, more pronounced in the legs. Given the acute onset and the classic ascending pattern of weakness, neurologist suspected Guillain-Barré Syndrome. On further neurological examination and nerve conduction study on the patient, it was diagnosed that the patient had acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP), subtype of GBS.
Recognizing the urgency of the diagnosis, the neurology team promptly started the patient on intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy, one of the standard treatments for GBS. IVIg works by modulating the immune response and reducing the ongoing attack on the nerves. Early initiation of treatment is considered crucial, as it can halt disease progression, reduce complications, and significantly improve outcomes. Over the course of treatment, the patient showed steady improvement in muscle strength and functional ability. With continued supportive care and rehabilitation, she regained full strength and was discharged in stable condition after 25 days in hospital.
“GBS is an acute autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves, damaging the protective myelin sheath and impairing nerve signal transmission, said Dr Deepa Avadhani, Senior Consultant Neurologist, Iswarya Hospital. This case underscores the importance of early recognition and prompt treatment of this rare but potentially life-threatening neurological condition. Delay in diagnosis can make the condition worse as it can involve respiratory muscles and can cause respiratory failure which may require mechanical ventilator support. With timely treatment, most patients recover well”, added Dr Deepa Avadhani.
“Neurological conditions can sometimes progress rapidly and significantly affect a patient’s mobility and overall quality of life. We are pleased that the timely diagnosis and treatment provided by the dedicated neurology team at Iswarya Hospital enabled the patient to make a complete recovery and return to her normal routine. This case showcases our capabilities in neurological care and our commitment to delivering the highest standards of patient-centric treatment,” said Prof. Dr. S. Rajasundaram, Chief Executive Officer, Iswarya Hospital, Chennai.