Acute motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN), also known as axonal Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), is a variant of GBS that, while rare, can have serious consequences for those who are diagnosed. While some individuals are able to recover quickly, extensive axonal degeneration can require long-term treatment and recovery.
AMAN is referred to as a “pure axonal form” of GBS. While other forms of GBS involve autoimmune attacks on the myelin sheath that protects the nerves, with AMAN the immune system attacks the axons within the nerves themselves. This causes the nerve cells to degenerate, which can potentially lead to a number of serious symptoms and complications.
Individuals diagnosed with AMAN following a tetanus or flu vaccination may be entitled to financial compensation through the federal government’s National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP). At GBS Vaccine Lawyer, we provide experienced legal representation for VICP claims nationwide, and if you have a claim we can help you seek to recover the money you need for treatment. With the potential for significant long-term effects, AMAN is a condition that needs to be taken seriously, and this includes enforcing your right to recover compensation under the law.
About AMAN
While AMAN is not the only axonal variant of GBS, it is widely considered to be the most common. Diagnosing AMAN typically starts with an electrodiagnostic examination, which is used to distinguish the patient’s condition from the demyelinating forms of GBS, such as acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIPD). Additional testing can then distinguish AMAN from other axonal variants; once the diagnosis is confirmed an appropriate treatment plan can be prescribed.
The two primary treatment options for AMAN are plasmapheresis (plasma exchange) and immunoglobulin therapy. Both forms of treatment focus on removing the harmful antibodies from the blood that cause the axonal deterioration associated with AMAN. Supportive therapy is generally recommended, and comprehensive treatment can significantly improve a patient’s chances of making a full recovery.
About the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program
Regardless of the prognosis treatment for AMAN is costly, and the physical, financial and emotional effects of vaccine-related AMAN can be devastating for many families. Established in 1988, the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) is intended to make it easier for with individuals with vaccine-related illnesses (including AMAN) to recover the money they need to cover their medical expenses and cope with their pain and other losses. Under the VICP, individuals diagnosed with AMAN following a flu or tetanus vaccination can recover compensation for:
- Diagnostic and treatment-related medical expenses
- Recovery and rehabilitation costs
- Lost income due to time missed from work
- Pain and suffering
Additionally, the VICP covers claimants’ legal fees separately from their awards of financial compensation. As a result, pursuing a VICP claim with the help of an experienced vaccine lawyer can come at little or no financial cost to you.
Learn More about Your Rights for Vaccine-Related AMAN
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with AMAN after receiving a flu or tetanus shot, contact GBS Vaccine Lawyer for a free consultation to discuss whether compensation may be available. To speak with our experienced vaccine attorney in confidence, get in touch with us online or call (202) 775-9200 to schedule an appointment now.