Patient Experiences of the Biopsychosocial Impact of Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Background: Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is an acute autoimmune disorder of the peripheral nervous system that can lead to muscle weakness, respiratory failure, and long-term disability. While clinical aspects have been widely studied, evidence on the biopsychosocial-spiritual impacts among adults remains limited. Purpose: This scoping review aimed to map existing evidence on the biological/physical, psychological, social, and spiritual impacts of GBS in adult patients and to identify research gaps. Methods: The review followed the framework by Arksey and O’Malley (2005) and was reported according to PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and EBSCOhost for studies published between January 2015 and January 2025. Using the PCC framework, we included peer-reviewed primary research on adult patients with GBS that examined physical, psychological, social outcomes. Selection is done through title/abstract screening and full-text review. Optional quality appraisal was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools to enhance the rigor of included studies. Data were extracted using a structured form and analyzed thematically. Results: Of 1,067 identified records, 16 studies across 10 countries were analyzed. Common physical impacts were residual motor weakness, neuropathic pain, sleep disturbances, and persistent fatigue. Psychological impacts included anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress, particularly among patients with residual disability or intensive care histories. Social impacts involved barriers to returning to work, stigma, and reduced social participation, with family support acting as a protective factor. Notably, no primary studies addressed the spiritual dimension, highlighting a critical research gap. Conclusion: Adults with GBS experience multidimensional and interrelated impacts across physical, psychological, and social domains. The absence of evidence on spiritual outcomes underscores the need for future research incorporating biopsychosocial-spiritual assessment to inform holistic, patient-centered care.