Guillain-Barré syndrome in children.

Abstract

The Guillain-Barre syndrome is an acquired, monophasic illness of the peripheral nervous system. The etiology is an autoimmune attack directed against peripheral nervous system myelin, although the exact mechanism of the immunologic injury is unknown. The major clinical features are rapidly progressive weakness and hyporeflexia, and the most serious complications during the acute phase of the disease are respiratory failure and autonomic cardiovascular disturbances. A careful history, physical examination, and routine laboratory tests are necessary to make a clinical diagnosis and to exclude other disorders that cause acute weakness. Results of laboratory studies that aid in the diagnosis, CSF protein and electrodiagnostic studies, are usually normal during the first week of the illness. The prognosis for children with Guillian-Barre syndrome is excellent for full recovery using modern intensive care therapy for respiratory support and management of other complications.