Course Description:

GBS is an acute, rapidly progressing, symmetrical demyelinating polyneuropathy. Patients with GBS present with symmetric progressive motor loss, with or without sensory loss, starting in the lower extremities and ascending to the upper extremities. Respiratory muscles are frequently affected, and in some cases, the lower cranial nerves are as well. Pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances are common symptoms. While the precise cause of GBS is unknown, it typically follows viral or bacterial infection or immunization, and the pathogenesis appears to be related to an autoimmune response. Initial medical care often requires hospitalization in the ICU, and the patient might receive plasmapheresis or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg). Physical therapy is indicated throughout the progression of the disease and will vary based on the rehabilitation setting and presentation of the patient. Initially, the goal of therapy will be to prevent secondary complications and minimize pain; as the patient recovers, the goal will be to maximize functional outcomes through strengthening, improving tolerance to the upright position, endurance training, balance training, and gait and functional mobility training. Overall prognosis for patients with GBS is generally good, with a 5-10% mortality rate worldwide and a 3-5 % recurrence rate.