Epidemiological Feature

Guillain-Barre Syndrome typically follows a respiratory or gastrointestinal illness, immunization, trauma, or metabolic insult. In particular, infections of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract or respiratory system are most commonly associated with the condition. GBS frequently follows a flu-like illness, or viral syndrome by a week or two.

The most characteristic epidemiological feature of Guillain-Barré Syndrome is the occurrence of an infection and subsequent treatment prior to the onset of illness. Many cases have been linked to recent bacterial of viral infections, vaccinations, or surgeries, including inappropriate and deleterious therapies.

Deleterious effects of a therapeutic or diagnostic regimen causes pathology independent of the condition for which the regimen is advised. Many of the reported cases follow a “flu-like”, or gastrointestinal illness with a causal link to certain medications, resulting in drug-induced decreases in the body's ability to recognize and attack invaders. Case reports exist citing numerous medications and procedures as possible triggers. Many of the reported cases which seem to be triggered by a microbial infection may actually follow its course with a causal link to the drugs and/or the treatment. Untreated conditions are also high on the order of possible causes.

Medications with drug-induced reduction of oxygen intake also become possible or contributing factors, or underlying causes of Guillain-Barre Syndrome, but are often misdiagnosed or overlooked as a cause. Vaccines, broad spectrum antibiotics, and "virus in stealth" (to help kill cancer cells) are themselves an onslaught on the immune system which can cause serum sickness leading to "provocation", the hallmark of the Guillain-Barré syndrome.