Inflammatory Neuropathies UK

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare autoimmune condition affecting the peripheral nervous system. Often triggered by a viral or bacterial infection such as flu or food poisoning, it causes the nerves in the arms and legs to become inflamed and stop working, often leading to temporary paralysis which may last from a few days to many months. An estimated 1,300 people (1-2 people per 100,000) are affected by GBS annually in the UK. About 80% will make a good recovery, but between 5-10% of people will not survive and 10-15% may experience long term residual effects ranging from limited mobility or dexterity, to life-long dependency on a wheelchair. A further 650 people (1-2 per 200,000) in the UK are diagnosed each year with CIDP (Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy); a similar but longer-lasting variant of the syndrome. It is possible to recover from CIDP, but many are affected for the rest of their lives and will require ongoing treatment with immunoglobulin or steroids in order to manage their symptoms. Inflammatory Neuropathies UK is the only national organisation in the UK and Republic of Ireland dedicated to helping people affected by these conditions.