Guillain-Barré syndrome: biological basis, treatment and care

Abstract

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a complex disorder that affects around 0.5-2 individuals per 100,000 per year (Hund et al 1993). The outcome can range from a sensation of paraesthesia to death. This article discusses the biological nature of Guillain-Barré syndrome, major diagnostic criteria and the treatment that is available. It highlights the nurse's role in management of the syndrome and describes how the extent of the syndrome in individual patients may be evaluated in the clinical area.