Publication:

Guillain–Barre syndrome - clinical profile, diagnosis and recovery in a tertiary care setting

Background Guillain–Barre syndrome (GBS) is an autoimmune disease and a recognized cause of generalized progressive paralysis worldwide. The present study was aimed to document the clinical finding, diagnostic challenges, and management outcome amongst the patients with GBS during the hospital stay.

Methods A retrospective analysis of 22 cases diagnosed as GBS was conducted. Medical records and the data related to age, sex, antecedent illness, muscle power graded by the Medical Research Council scale, functional scores, details of intensive care unit complications and need for ventilation were obtained.

Results GBS seems to affect all age groups with male preponderance.  The male-to female ratio was 2.5:1. Maximum number of patients (50 %, n=11) were in the age group of 60 years and above. The next common age group was 13-30 years in which 31.8% (n=7) patient. Nearly 72% patients (n=16) had history of preceding illness. Paraparesis as a common clinical feature 54.5% (n=12). The majority (n=20) 90.9% were found to be of AMSAN followed by AIDP variants (n=2) 9.09%. About 59.09% patient (n=13) improved at the time of discharge on their F-scores with mild disability.

Conclusions GBS remains a neurologic emergency that requires early recognition and prompt management to improve patient outcomes. Our study highlights the diverse clinical presentations and underscores the importance of supportive care and timely initiation of immunotherapy. While most patients show favourable recovery with appropriate treatment, residual deficits and complications can persist, emphasizing the need for ongoing rehabilitation and follow-up. Increased awareness among clinicians, especially in primary care and emergency settings, is crucial for early diagnosis. Further research is warranted to explore predictive markers of prognosis and optimize long-term care strategies.