Miller Fisher syndrome

Face | Rheumatology | Miller Fisher syndrome (Disease)


Description

Miller Fisher syndrome is a rare, acute polyneuropathy characterized by ataxia (abnormal muscle coordination), ophthalmoplegia (paralysis of the eye muscles), and areflexia (absence of the reflexes). The disorder is a variant of Guillain-Barre syndrome.

A variant of the Guillain-Barre syndrome characterized by the acute onset of oculomotor dysfunction, ataxia, and loss of deep tendon reflexes with relative sparing of strength in the extremities and trunk. The ataxia is produced by peripheral sensory nerve dysfunction and not by cerebellar injury. Facial weakness and sensory loss may also occur. The process is mediated by autoantibodies directed against a component of myelin found in peripheral nerves.

Causes and Risk factors

To research the causes of Miller Fisher Syndrome, consider researching the causes of these these diseases that may be similar, or associated with Miller Fisher Syndrome: Guillain-Barre syndrome, descending, paralysis, diplopia, numbness, dizziness, ophthalmoplegia, plasmapheresis

Diagnosis and Treatment

Treatment for Miller Fisher syndrome is identical to treatment for Guillain-Barre syndrome: intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) or plasmapheresis (a procedure in which antibodies are removed from the blood) and supportive care. The prognosis for most individuals with Miller Fisher syndrome is good. In most cases, recovery begins within 2 to 4 weeks of the onset of symptoms, and may be almost complete within 6 months. Some individuals are left with residual deficits. Very rarely (in less than 3 percent of cases) relapses may occur. The NINDS supports research aimed at discovering new ways to diagnose, treat, and, ultimately, cure neuropathies such as Miller Fisher syndrome.

The list of treatments mentioned in various sources for Miller Fisher Syndrome includes the following list. Always seek professional medical advice about any treatment or change in treatment plans.

Treatments are similar to that for Guillain-Barre syndrome

(1) Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg)

(2) Plasmapheresis

(3) Supportive care...