Question

What is the CSF presentation of a patient with Guillain-Barre syndrome?

a) Elevated white blood cells and protein
b) Decreased white blood cells and increased glucose
c) Normal CSF findings
d) Elevated red blood cells and glucose

Answer 1

The typical CSF presentation in Guillain-Barre syndrome includes elevated white blood cells and protein, with normal glucose levels.

Step-by-step explanation:

The CSF presentation of a patient with Guillain-Barre syndrome is typically characterized by elevated white blood cells and elevated protein levels. This finding is known as albuminocytological dissociation. Guillain-Barre syndrome tends to show a specific pattern where, despite increased protein in CSF, the glucose level remains normal. Unlike some other conditions like bacterial meningitis that present with abnormally high levels of polymorphonuclear neutrophils, decreased glucose, and increased protein, or multiple sclerosis with the presence of oligoclonal bands, Guillain-Barre syndrome CSF findings are distinct. In summary, the correct answer to the student's question would be 'a) Elevated white blood cells and protein' as this reflects the typical CSF findings in a case of Guillain-Barre syndrome.