Charlotte Lawthom

Abstract

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is an acute inflammatory polyneuropathy. Typical presentation is one of ascending tetraparesis with aref lexia. Variant forms of GBS include ataxia and ophthalmoplegia with aref lexia; patients with preserved ref lexes may mislead the unwary. Diagnostic dilemmas may be solved with neurophysiology and lumbar puncture.

Emergency management requires assessment of airway, breathing and circulation. Regular monitoring of respiratory, and bulbar function is essential and any deterioration in neurological function should prompt treatment. Treatment with intravenous immunoglubulin shortens the length of illness.