Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is an acute autoimmune condition of the peripheral nerves which can cause weakness, numbness, double vision, and difficulties with speech, swallowing, and breathing. Most cases of GBS cause injury to the myelin sheath, but other types can damage primarily the axons.  IVIg is the mainstay of treatment, though plasmapharesis can be considered in severe cases. See below for diagnostic and treatment algorithms.