Molecular mimicry in the Guillain-Barré syndrome

Damage to the axon or myelin sheath of peripheral nerves leads to dysfunction called neuropathy. The type of dysfunction depends on the localization of the injured nerve and the type of nerve (motor. sensory. autonomic) involved. In addition to damage such as caused by metabolic disturbances. toxic substances or degenerative processes. it is well recognized that components of the immune system such as antibodies. complement T cells and macrophages can be found in affected nerves and are likely to be involved in the pathogenesis of neuropathies. This particular group of neurological disorders is called immune-mediated neuropathies. Patients with an immune-mediated neuropathy often have antibodies that react with components of peripheral nerves and respond favorably to immune-modulating therapies such as plasmapheresis and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) treatment. The immunemediated neuropathies can be further subdivided according to their course, although the distinction between acute and chronic disease is made arbitrarily.