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Guillain-Barré syndrome: activated complement components C3a and C5a in CSF
Neurology
|June 1, 1987
Summary
Complement activation products C3a and C5a are elevated in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), suggesting complement system involvement in this neurological disorder.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Complement System Biology
Background:
- Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an autoimmune disorder affecting peripheral nerves.
- The role of the complement system in GBS pathogenesis is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate complement system activation in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma of patients with acute monophasic GBS.
- To quantify levels of complement activation products C3a and C5a.
Main Methods:
- Radioimmunoassay was used to measure C3a and C5a levels.
- Samples were analyzed from 16 patients with acute GBS and a control group with noninflammatory neurologic diseases.
Main Results:
- Significantly elevated median CSF levels of C3a (118 ng/ml) and C5a (9.6 ng/ml) were observed in GBS patients compared to controls.
- Plasma concentrations of C3a and C5a did not differ significantly between GBS patients and controls.
Conclusions:
- The findings indicate activation of the complement system within the CSF of patients experiencing acute GBS.
- Complement activation products may play a role in the inflammatory processes characteristic of GBS.