Assam Reports First Fatal Case of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) as 17-Year-Old Girl Succumbs in Guwahati

GBS is a disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the nervous system, leading to progressive weakness.

Assam has reported its first fatal case of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare but serious neurological disorder that has raised nationwide concerns.

The victim, 17-year-old Afia Zeenat, a resident of Pathar Quarry in Guwahati, had been battling the illness at Pratiksha Hospital since January 21. Despite receiving intensive medical care, she tragically passed away on Friday night.

What is GBS disorder?
GBS is a disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the nervous system, leading to progressive weakness, numbness, and in severe cases, paralysis. It often begins with a tingling sensation in the hands and feet, rapidly advancing to muscle weakness and difficulty in movement. If left untreated, it can affect the ability to breathe, making it a life-threatening condition.

Although the exact cause of GBS remains unclear, it is often triggered by an infection such as a respiratory illness, gastrointestinal infection, or even COVID-19. Other potential triggers include the Zika virus. While GBS has no definitive cure, early medical intervention can significantly improve recovery outcomes.

Symptoms of Guillain-Barré Syndrome

The symptoms of GBS can escalate quickly, with peak weakness occurring within two weeks. Common signs include:

1/ Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation in fingers, toes, wrists, or ankles

2/ Muscle weakness that starts in the legs and spreads to the upper body
Difficulty walking or climbing stairs

3/ Unsteady gait and loss of coordination

4/ Trouble with facial movements, including speaking, chewing, or swallowing

5/ Severe pain, often worse at night

6/ Issues with bladder or bowel control

7/ Fluctuating blood pressure and rapid heart rate

8/ Difficulty breathing, which can require emergency care

Types of Guillain-Barré Syndrome

GBS can manifest in different forms, including:

Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP) – The most common type in North America and Europe, causes muscle weakness that starts in the lower body and spreads upward.

Miller Fisher Syndrome (MFS) – Primarily affects the eyes, leading to paralysis and unsteady walking. This form is more common in Asia.

Acute Motor Axonal Neuropathy (AMAN) and Acute Motor-Sensory Axonal Neuropathy (AMSAN) – These are more prevalent in China, Japan, and Mexico, affecting motor functions more severely.

When to Seek Medical Attention?

GBS can worsen rapidly, making early diagnosis crucial. Seek immediate medical help if you experience:

1/ Tingling in the feet or fingers that spread upward
2/ Rapidly worsening weakness or numbness
3/ Difficulty breathing, even when lying down
4/ Choking on saliva or trouble swallowing

Afia Zeenat’s untimely death has sparked concern over GBS awareness and treatment availability in Assam. While most patients recover over time, the condition requires prompt medical intervention to prevent severe complications. Her case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of recognising early symptoms and seeking urgent medical care.

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