Nagpur reports third GBS death; Two more patients admitted

Nagpur: The city recorded its third Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) death this year after a 32-year-old man succumbed at Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) on Friday. The patient had been admitted in a critical condition on February 12 after undergoing treatment at a private hospital. Despite intensive care in the ICU, he could not be saved.

Doctors at GMCH noted that the patient had several comorbidities, which contributed to the severity of his condition. Dr Atul Rajkondawar, head of the department of medicine, explained that while GBS was a significant factor, the patient also suffered from fibrosis, alcoholic hepatitis, acute pancreatitis, encephalopathy, and sepsis, all of which had a severe impact on his respiratory system.

Meanwhile, two more GBS cases were admitted to GMCH in the past two days. A 65-year-old man from Nagpur, who has been a chronic alcoholic and smoker for 25 years, was admitted on Wednesday with symptoms of tingling, burning sensation, and weakness in all four limbs, along with difficulty swallowing. His neurological evaluation suggests an atypical variant of GBS.

On Thursday, a 55-year-old homeless woman from Sakkardara was admitted with sensory motor polyneuropathy, hypertension, and diabetes. Her condition is further complicated by bilateral aspiration, requiring oxygen support.

Following these developments, the total number of GBS patients currently under treatment at GMCH stands at three. Among them, one adult male and one adult female are in the ICU, while a young girl remains on ventilator support. Doctors have confirmed that all three patients are under close observation, with one patient requiring critical respiratory assistance.

Dr Avinash Gawande, medical superintendent, GMCH, highlighted the increasing number of GBS cases in Nagpur, stating that approximately one new patient is being diagnosed every week. He emphasized that many of these cases involve individuals with pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and chronic alcohol consumption, which could be contributing to the severity of their illness.

"We are seeing a rise in cases where underlying health conditions seem to worsen the impact of GBS. While the exact cause remains uncertain, these factors may be playing a major role. Early detection and immediate treatment are crucial in improving the chances of recovery," Dr Gawande said.

With GBS cases on the rise, medical experts are urging the public to be aware of early symptoms such as tingling sensations, limb weakness, difficulty swallowing, and loss of reflexes. If left untreated, GBS can lead to paralysis and respiratory failure, requiring prolonged hospitalization and intensive care. Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation while stressing the importance of early medical intervention and awareness to prevent further fatalities.