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Guillain-Barre Syndrome
Guillain-Barre Syndrome - Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Guillain-Barre Syndrome
The exact cause and trigger of the Guillain-Barre syndrome is not known and therefore it is not often referred to as a disease. Since the signs and symptoms of the condition vary, and almost always follow the symptoms of another infection, it may be difficult for doctors to diagnose the syndrome in its initial stages. Several disorders have similar symptoms and therefore the first thing the doctors do is to eliminate various diseases and find the one, which may be the cause of the symptoms.
Guillain-Barre Syndrome's symptoms collectively form specific patterns that help doctors differentiate between Guillain-Barre Syndrome and other similar appearing health conditions. The diagnosis of Guillain-Barre Syndrome is also aided by specific tests. Some of these tests for Guillain-Barre Syndrome include:
- Spinal Tap: This test is performed to collect a sample of the cerebrospinal fluid from the base of the spine. For collecting this sample, the lower back is numbed with local anesthesia and a long syringe is inserted into the spine to collect the fluid. This is a dangerous procedure that requires precision and should only be performed by a qualified clinician.
- ECG: This test is performed to check for changing heart rates and monitoring changing blood pressure as well. This can help the doctor offer immediate treatment to prevent complication of the disease.
- Electromyography: This is a test that is performed to test the electrical activity in the muscles. This test ensures that the nerves in the limbs are capable of collecting and sending electrical impulses. As the nerves get more damaged, the electrical activity in them is lessened.
- Nerve Conduction Velocity Test: This is a test specifically designed to test the response time of the nerves. This test can help determine the health of the nerves and ensure that they are conducting and transmitting signals in the appropriate manner.
- Pulmonary Function Test: This is a test performed to check the lung capacity of the body. It can also determine how much of the inhaled oxygen is released back into the air and how much of it is made available to the blood for circulation of oxygen.