IMMUNOPATHOGENESIS AND TREATMENT OF THE GUILLAIN-BARRE-SYNDROME .2.

In the second part of our review the role of antecedent infections in the pathogenesis of GBS is discussed, The association with Campylobact er jejuni (C. jejuni) is highlighted and the concept of molecular mimi cry, i.e., sharing of epitopes between microbes and peripheral nerve, explained. Alternative mechanisms to relate an infection with the immu ne-mediated neuropathy are elaborated, Current therapies of the GBS in clude plasma exchange, high-dose intravenous immunoglobulins, and supp ortive treatment directed to secondary complications. Published therap eutic trials are reviewed and future approaches are outlined. Principl es of general care are also summarized. (C) 1995 John Wiley and Sons, Inc.