Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) Practice Exam

In Guillain-Barré Syndrome, what does the "descending" type of muscle weakness refer to?

1. Weakness starting from the legs moving to the upper body

2. Weakness starting in the facial nerves and moving downwards

3. Weakness affecting only one limb

4. Weakness occurring post-recovery

The correct answer is: Weakness starting in the facial nerves and moving downwards

In Guillain-Barré Syndrome, the "descending" type of muscle weakness refers to weakness that begins in the facial nerves and moves downward through the body. This pattern represents a specific progression wherein the initial muscular impairment often involves the cranial nerves, particularly affecting facial muscle control and sensation. As the condition advances, this weakness typically spreads to the neck, upper limbs, and then to the lower limbs. This descending nature is significant because it can help differentiate Guillain-Barré from other types of muscle weakness syndromes, such as the ascending type seen in classic presentations of the disease, where symptoms start in the lower limbs and ascend upwards. Identifying the pattern of weakness is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.