Ascending Paralysis

Ascending Paralysis is another name for Guillain-Barre syndrome. Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a disease of the nervous system due to damage to the myelin sheath around nerves. The myelin sheath acts as an insulator the same as rubber or plastic around electrical wires.

Guillain-Barre Syndrome is the most frequent acquired (as opposed to inherited) nerve disease (neuropathy). In many cases it follows shortly after a virus infection. It is also rarely associated with immunizations, surgery, and childbirth.

Landry ascending paralysis: A particularly virulent form of Guillain-Barre syndrome. The disorder often begins with a flu-like illness that brings on general physical weakness, but is then characterized by rapidly progressing paralysis that starts in the legs and arms, and may move on (ascend) to affect the breathing muscles and face. As with less severe forms of Guillain-Barre, the exact cause is not yet known but presumed to be viral and/or autoimmune. Hospitalization is usually required, and treatment is by plasmapheresis or intravenous gamma globulin (IVIG).