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Multivariate analysis showed that in GBS patients, infections with Camphylobacter jejuni (32%), cytomegalovirus (13%), and Epstein-Barr virus (10%) were significantly more frequent than in controls. Infections with Haemophilus influenzae (1%), parainfluenza 1 virus (1%), influenza A virus (1%), influenza B virus (1%), adenovirus (1%), herpes simplex virus (1%), and varicella zoster virus (1%) were also demonstrated in GBS patients, but not more frequently than in controls. C. Jejuni infections were associated with antibodies to the gangliosides GM1 and GD1b and with a severe pure motor form of GMS. Cytomegalovirus infections were associated with antibodies to the ganglioside GM2 and with severe motor sensory deficits. Other infections were not related to specific antiganglioside antibodies and neurologic patterns. Recent infections with C. jejuni, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and M. pneumoniae are specifically related to GBS. The variety of infections may contribute to the clinical and immunologic heterogeneity of GMS. |
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