Anti-Ganglioside Q1b Antibody (Anti-GQ1b)

Anti-ganglioside antibodies that react to self-gangliosides are found in autoimmune neuropathies. These antibodies were first found to react with cerebellar cells. These antibodies show highest association with certain forms of Guillain-Barré syndrome.Anti-GQ1b are found in Miller-Fisher syndrome. Studies of these antibodies reveal large disruption of the Schwann cells. Anti-GQ1b IgG levels were elevated in patients with ophthalmoplegia in Gullian-Barré syndrome. Antibodies to the ganglioside GQ1b are often associated with Miller Fisher syndrome. This condition should be considered when there is a combination of diplopia, ataxia, and loss of deep tendon reflexes. The ataxia is probably due to loss of sensory input to the cerebellum. Mean time of recovery is at 10 weeks.