The first-line treatment for Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) depends on the specific type of GBS. However, for most cases, the first-line treatments are intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and plasmapheresis. These treatments are equally effective in shortening the duration of the illness.
Understanding GBS Treatments
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Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG): IVIG involves administering a concentrated dose of healthy antibodies intravenously. This helps to modulate the immune system and reduce the attack on the nerves.
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Plasmapheresis: This procedure removes harmful antibodies from the blood plasma, thereby reducing the autoimmune attack on the peripheral nerves.
Several sources confirm that IVIG and plasmapheresis are the primary treatments for GBS. A study published in Nature highlights their equal efficacy (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41582-019-0250-9). MedScape and other reputable sources (https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/315632-medication) also support this consensus. The American Academy of Family Physicians (https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2013/0201/p191.html) even suggests that plasma exchange should begin within seven days of symptom onset.
It is crucial to note that this refers to Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). The first-line treatment for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) infection is different; it is penicillin G (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6432937/). Therefore, clarifying the specific type of GBS is essential when determining the appropriate first-line treatment.
