Complications of Guillain-Barré syndrome

Expert Rev Clin Immunol. 2016;12(4):439-48. doi: 10.1586/1744666X.2016.1128829. Epub 2016 Jan 11.

Abstract

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an immune-mediated disorder in the peripheral nervous system with a wide spectrum of complications. A good understanding of the complications of GBS assists clinicians to recognize and manage the complications properly thereby reducing the mortality and morbidity of GBS patients. Herein, we systemically review the literature on complications of GBS, including short-term complications and long-term complications. We summarize the frequency, severity, clinical manifestations, managements and possible mechanisms of different kinds of complications, and point out the flaws of current studies as well as demonstrate the further investigations needed.

Keywords: Guillain-Barré syndrome; complication; long-term; peripheral nervous system; short-term.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disease Management
  • Guillain-Barre Syndrome / epidemiology
  • Guillain-Barre Syndrome / physiopathology*
  • Guillain-Barre Syndrome / therapy
  • Humans
  • Peripheral Nervous System*
  • Prevalence