Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Treatment

Treatment programs are tailored to each individual and take into account the needs of the patient and family, while providing state-of-the-art care and access to new developments and appropriate clinical trials.

Mayo Clinic offers comprehensive, coordinated care for patients at any stage of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), including initial medical treatment, rehabilitation, and management of complications associated with GBS.

Initial Medical Treatment

Due to the unpredictable way in which GBS progresses, most newly diagnosed patients are hospitalized and usually placed in intensive care to monitor breathing and other body functions. About one in three patients needs a mechanical ventilator to breathe.

Treating GBS early, within two to four weeks after signs and symptoms appear, may reduce the severity and speed recovery. Mayo Clinic offers two primary medical therapies for GBS:

Plasmapheresis (Plasma Exchange)

In this treatment, the blood is "cleansed" of damaging antibodies. A small, thin tube called a catheter is inserted into the vein of one arm; another tube is inserted into the opposite hand or foot. Blood is withdrawn from one tube and sent to a "cell separator" device, which separates the red blood cells from the plasma (the liquid part of the blood). The blood cells are then combined with replacement fluids and returned to the body through the other tube.

Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg)

Immunoglobulin contains healthy antibodies from blood donors. High doses of immunoglobulin are injected into the patient through an intravenous (IV) line to block the damaging antibodies in the blood that may contribute to GBS.

Rehabilitation

Although most people recover from GBS, the length of the illness is unpredictable and often requires months of hospital care and rehabilitation. As the nerve supply returns, patients need assistance to learn optimal use of muscles affected by GBS. Several treatment options may be used.

Physical Therapy

The purpose of physical therapy is to stimulate muscles and joints, through various physical movement and exercise, to rebuild strength, flexibility and range of motion.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy focuses on activities to help patients be as self-sufficient as possible in their daily lives.

Assistive Devices

Patients may need assistive devices, such as leg or arm braces, canes, walkers and wheelchairs, in the short term, to provide as much mobility as possible during recovery or, if GBS causes permanent disabilities, for long-term use.

Management of Complications

While most people with GBS recover completely, some have ongoing weakness or abnormal sensations, such as numbness or tingling. For some, recovery can take a long time. Some may experience complications, including:

• Relapse (recurrence of GBS signs and symptoms months or years later)
• Permanent loss of muscle strength
• Serious, long-term disability

Mayo Clinic can assist patients in managing possible complications associated with the disorder. Mayo Clinic can provide follow-up care for GBS or care can be coordinated with the patient's primary or local physicians.

Support for the Family

Family members of people with GBS need help in coping with the disorder and the challenges of the unpredictable nature of the patient's illness and recovery. Mayo Clinic offers resources, education and information to help family members.