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Guillain-Barré Syndrome

An acute immune-mediated polyradiculoneuropathy typically presenting with ascending weakness after an antecedent infection.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

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What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is the most common acute autoimmune polyneuropathy, with an incidence of approximately 1–2 per 100,000 per year. It is often preceded by a respiratory or gastrointestinal infection, particularly Campylobacter jejuni, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, or Zika virus.

The classic subtype is acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP); axonal variants include acute motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN) and acute motor-sensory axonal neuropathy (AMSAN). Miller-Fisher syndrome presents with ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and areflexia.

Cerebrospinal fluid typically shows albuminocytologic dissociation (elevated protein with normal cell count). Nerve conduction studies help classify the subtype, and serum antiganglioside antibodies support certain phenotypes.

Respiratory failure, autonomic instability, and deep vein thrombosis are key complications that require ICU-level monitoring during the acute phase.

Symptoms

Rapidly ascending symmetric limb weakness
Areflexia or marked hyporeflexia
Paresthesia, pain, and sensory disturbance
Cranial nerve involvement with facial diplegia or bulbar weakness
Dysautonomia with fluctuating blood pressure, arrhythmia, and ileus
Progressive respiratory muscle weakness with potential failure

Risk Factors

Recent gastrointestinal or respiratory infection
Campylobacter jejuni, CMV, EBV, or Zika exposure
Certain vaccinations in very rare instances
Surgery or trauma in the preceding weeks
Pregnancy and postpartum state
Male sex and increasing age

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Rapidly progressive weakness, numbness, or areflexia over days
  • New shortness of breath, weak cough, or difficulty swallowing
  • Unstable blood pressure or arrhythmia in a patient with recent infection

Treatment Methods

01
Hospitalization with close monitoring of vital capacity and heart rhythm
02
Intravenous immunoglobulin 2 g/kg over 5 days or plasma exchange, ideally within two weeks
03
Mechanical ventilation for vital capacity below 20 mL/kg or bulbar failure
04
Deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis, nutritional support, and pressure ulcer prevention
05
Pain management with gabapentin or pregabalin, and tailored analgesia
06
Early multidisciplinary rehabilitation including physiotherapy and occupational therapy

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.