Weakness (Guillain–Barré syndrome)

Abstract

Acute weakness is a common neurological emergency. One of the most frequent neuromuscular causes of acute weakness is Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS). This chapter reviews the epidemiology, pathogenesis, differential diagnosis, clinical presentation, and variants of GBS. Treatment options are discussed including an evidence-based review of various immunomodulatory therapies and practical, symptomatic management. Finally, the chapter covers prognosis and differentiation between acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP). This chapter aims to improve understanding and therefore diagnosis and management of a classic neuromuscular disease.