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16 - Guillain–Barré syndrome
from Part II - Neurological diseases
- By F. G. A. van der Meché, R. van Koningsveld
Albert Hofman, Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam, Richard Mayeux, Columbia University, New York
Book:

Investigating Neurological Disease

Published online:

29 September 2009

Print publication:

30 August 2001, pp 218-229
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Summary

Two-thirds of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) patients suffer from an infection approximately one to three weeks before the onset of weakness. These infections mostly involve the upper respiratory and the gastrointestinal tract. In about 28% of GBS patients the disease runs a mild course and these patients will remain ambulant during the course of the disease. In the other patients the disease progresses and finally, artificial respiration is necessary in 20-30% of the patients. Because of the risk of autonomous dysfunction and the unpredictable course of the disease, the patient should be carefully monitored from the beginning. In doing so, one should be aware of the possibility of respiratory distress, aspiration, and cardiovascular problems. Pain often is a great burden to the patient. Although special mattresses and frequent repositioning may be helpful, epidural morphine application may be necessary.