Diagnosis and Management of Guillain‑Barré Syndrome: A Brief Literature Review
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Guillain‑Barré syndrome (GBS) is an acute, immune‑mediated polyradiculoneuropathy characterized by progressive weakness and hyporeflexia. Early diagnosis is vital because the clinical course may rapidly progress to respiratory failure and other severe complications. The pathogenesis involves autoimmune mechanisms triggered by preceding infections, with Campylobacter jejuni being one of the main associated agents. Diagnosis is primarily clinical but supported by ancillary tests, such as nerve‑conduction studies and cerebrospinal‑fluid analysis, which typically demonstrates albuminocytologic dissociation. Management requires intensive supportive care including respiratory and hemodynamic monitoring and disease‑specific therapies, notably plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin, both of which curb disease progression. Multidisciplinary care, especially physiotherapy‑based rehabilitation, is crucial to minimize sequelae. Recent studies explore novel therapeutic approaches, including immunomodulators and biomarkers for improved prognostic stratification. Despite therapeutic advances, GBS still poses clinical challenges, particularly in early recognition and complication prevention. Recovery may be protracted, and some patients experience persistent motor and neuropathic deficits. Prognosis varies according to initial severity and treatment response. Ongoing research into pathophysiology, biomarkers, and new therapeutic strategies is essential to enhance clinical outcomes for patients with GBS.
Authors: Ian Caldeira Ruppen, Larissa da Rosa Piccoli, Leandro Silva Pivato, André Cesar Leandro, Tauane Cano Barreto, Emily Eduarda Hellmann, Ana Paula Mendes, Priscila De Oliveira Barros, Camilla Antunes Zanini, Sarila Hali Kloster Lopes, Lara Beatriz Dallaqua Bitiati, Ana Carolina Langendyk Rodrigues, Maria Clara Costa Calvo
Language: English
Subfield: Neurology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4411255569