John’s Medical Funds

Miller Fisher Syndrome (MFS) is considered a rare nerve disease that can be acquired following occurrences of viral infections. The disease affects the central nervous system which attacks the body’s own auto-immune system. The autoimmune disorder happens when healthy body tissues are mistakenly attacked by the immune system such as in the case of Miller Fisher Syndrome. The myelin sheath which acts as a nerve insulator in the central nervous system is attacked and destroyed by the immune system. This result is known as demyelination. In this condition the signals are disrupted between the brain and other parts of the body

Neurological exam reveals poor coordination and balance of the hands along with loss of deep tendon reflexes. There is weakness of the eye muscles, facial muscles with dilated pupils. Some patients also have a decreased gag reflex on stimulation of the throat.

Nerve conduction tests can be done which reveal decreased nerve activity, which transmit sensory information to the brain and spinal cord.

Magnetic Resonance (MRI) Imaging of the spinal cord and brain are often normal.

Lumbar Tap: There is elevation of spinal fluid protein..