There are many forms of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), all of which may result from a flu or tetanus vaccine injection. Learn about the variants of vaccine-related GBS, and then contact us to find out if you have a claim for financial compensation.
The risk of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a growing concern for many individuals and families who choose to immunize. Although rare, GBS can have life-changing (and potentially life-threatening) effects. Growing awareness of the disease combined with the lack of any known cure is leading to an increase in GBS-related claims under the federal government’s National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP).
There are several variants of Guillain-Barre Syndrome, each with its own unique primary symptoms, risk factors, treatment options and long-term prognosis.
Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (AIDP)
Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (AIDP) is a form of GBS that is most often characterized by sensory symptoms (such as “tingling” and pain) that are followed by weakness in the arms, legs and extremities. Studies suggest that as many as one in five cases of AIDP may result in respiratory failure.
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP)
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) is among one of the most dangerous forms of GBS. Individuals diagnosed with CIPD often experience progressive weakness and sensory impairment, which may lead to near-total paralysis. Although treatable, CIPD may also lead to permanent physical limitations.
Miller Fisher Syndrome (MFS)
Miller Fisher Syndrome (MFS) is a GBS variant that is characterized by lack of coordination, reflex limitations and paralysis of the eye muscles. Like AIPD, CIPD and other variants, MFS has the potential to lead to respiratory failure if not treated promptly.
Acute Motor Axonal Neuropathy (AMAN)
Acute Motor Axonal Neuropathy (AMAN) is a form of GBS in which the primary effects of the body’s autoimmune response focus on the nerve cells’ axons rather than the myelin sheath protecting the nerves. AMAN is the most common axonal variant of GBS, and prompt diagnosis and treatment of AMAN may significantly improve a patient’s chances of making a full recovery.
Acute Motor Sensory Axonal Neuropathy (AMSAN)
Acute Motor Sensory Axonal Neuropathy (AMSAN) is a rare variant of GBS with symptoms similar to those commonly exhibited with AIDP. However, AMSAN is typically more severe than AIDP, and patients with AMSAN often face a longer and more-challenging road to recovery.
Pharyngeal-Cervical-Brachial Variant
Pharyngeal-Cervical-Brachial Variant is a variant of GBS that is characterized by progressive weakness and loss of reflexes in the upper limbs. It is categorized as an anoxal form of the disease, similar to AMAN and AMSAN. Misdiagnosis of Pharyngeal-Cervical-Brachial Variant is common, making it critical for patients to inform their physicians of any recent vaccinations.
Acute Panautonomic Neuropathy
Acute Panautonomic Neuropathy is the rarest known variant of GBS. Symptoms generally include sensory limitations, blurred vision and dry eyes, and patients with Acute Panautonomic Neuropathy will often experience cardiovascular complications.
Bickerstaff’s Brainstem Encephalitis (BBE)
Bickerstaff’s Brainstem Encephalitis (BBE) is a rare GBS variant that is most commonly characterized by loss of reflexes in the lower limbs, loss of motor control, drowsiness and other related symptoms. In severe cases, patients may become comatose. BBE is most common among adults, though there have been reported instances of children contracting BBE as well.
Learn About Your Rights If You Contracted a GBS Variant Following a Vaccination
At GBS Vaccine Lawyer, we provide nationwide legal representation for individuals who have contracted GBS following vaccinations. Our on-staff medical team assists in assessing our clients’ medical conditions, and our experienced vaccine attorney handles all aspects of our clients’ claims under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP). To receive no-cost legal representation for your GBS compensation claim, please call (202) 775-9200 or request a free consultation online today.