Question of the Day – GUILLAIN-BARRE SYNDROME (GBS)
QOTD March 24,2026
Consider the following statements regarding Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS):
- It is an autoimmune disorder affecting the peripheral nervous system.
- It is commonly caused by genetic mutation inherited from parents.
- It can lead to muscle weakness and paralysis in severe cases.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
GBS is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks peripheral nerves.
Statement 2 is incorrect
It is not primarily a genetic disorder but often triggered by infections.
Statement 3 is correct
It can cause muscle weakness and may progress to paralysis in severe cases.
Why in news–
Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) has been in news due to a recent rise in reported cases in some regions, raising public health concerns. It is a rare neurological disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves. Health authorities have increased surveillance and awareness as early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. The condition is often seen after viral or bacterial infections and can lead to muscle weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis. Its occurrence highlights the importance of monitoring post-infection complications and strengthening healthcare response systems.
There are more questions from this topic that you should practice to make your concepts stronger.
Practice Questions (PQ)
PQ1.Consider the following statements regarding the nervous system:
- The peripheral nervous system connects the central nervous system to limbs and organs.
- The brain and spinal cord together form the peripheral nervous system.
- The nervous system helps in coordination and response to stimuli.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
The peripheral nervous system links the central nervous system to the rest of the body.
Statement 2 is incorrect
The brain and spinal cord form the central nervous system.
Statement 3 is correct
The nervous system controls coordination and responses to stimuli.
PQ2. Consider the following statements regarding autoimmune diseases:
- They occur when the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues.
- They are always caused by bacterial infections.
- They can affect different organs and systems of the body.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
Autoimmune diseases involve the immune system attacking self-tissues.
Statement 2 is incorrect
They are not always caused by infections and may have multiple triggers.
Statement 3 is correct
They can affect various organs such as joints, nerves and skin.
PQ3. Consider the following statements regarding infectious diseases:
- Viral and bacterial infections can sometimes trigger neurological complications.
- All infections lead to long-term complications like paralysis.
- Early medical intervention can reduce severity of complications.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
Certain infections can trigger complications like Guillain-Barre Syndrome.
Statement 2 is incorrect
Not all infections lead to long-term complications.
Statement 3 is correct
Timely treatment helps in reducing severity and improving recovery.
Previous Year Question (UPSC Prelims)
With reference to ‘viral diseases’, consider the following statements:
- All viruses infect humans only.
- Viruses can infect animals and plants also.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) both 1 and 2
(d) neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b) 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect
Viruses do not infect only humans; they can infect other organisms as well.
Statement 2 is correct
Viruses can infect animals, plants and even microorganisms.