Peripheral neuropathy

Inflammatory Neuropathies, which are the commonest treatable neuropathies in the Western World, have been a focus of Nerve Research Foundation researches since the Foundation was conceived. Over that time, there have been major advances in the understanding and treatment of these conditions through basic and clinical research.

These disorders cause paralysis and sensory loss. They consist of an acute condition, the Guillain-Barre Syndrome (G.B.S.) and a chronic illness, chronic inflammatory demyelinating neuropathy (C.I.D.P.). Careful analysis of patients with G.B.S. & C.I.D.P. has shown each condition is comprised of different subtypes with different pathologies. Recognition of homogeneous groups has facilitated an understanding of disease pathogenesis. Another chronic disorder, Multifocal Motor Neuropathy with conduction block (MMN) is also regarded as an inflammatory neuropathy. This disease presents with muscle wasting without sensory loss and can be confused with Motor Neuron Disease.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a most interesting disorder because patients often become severely paralysed yet with appropriate care may recover completely. GBS is an inflammatory disorder of the peripheral nerves, those outside the brain and spinal cord. It is characterised by the rapid onset of weakness and often, paralysis of the legs, arms, breathing muscles and face. Many patients require intensive care during the early course of their illness, especially if support of breathing with a machine is required. Although most people recover, this can take months, and some may have long term disabilities of varying degrees.

GBS can develop in any person at any age, regardless of gender or ethnic background. The cause is not known but cases often present after viral or bacterial infection. Plasma exchange (a blood cleansing procedure) and high dose intravenous immunoglobulins are often helpful to shorten the course of GBS. The Nerve Research Foundation has conducted research into GBS for many years. In fact our Foundation was launched by Joseph Heller, the novelist who wrote "Catch 22", who himself developed the Guillain Barré Syndrome and wrote of his experience in "No Laughing Matter".

NRF medical staff first introduced plasma exchange treatment for GBS to Australia.