IBCC Episode 93 - Guillain-Barre Syndrome

In this episode of The Internet Book of Critical Care Podcast, Josh and Adam discuss Guillain-Barre Syndrome, covering its definition, variants like ADIP, AMAN, AMSIN, and Miller-Fisher, and epidemiology, including triggers like Campylobacter, COVID, and Zika. They delve into the usual presentation of distal ascending weakness, potential dysautonomia, and differential diagnoses ranging from CNS issues to peripheral nerve and muscle problems. The discussion extends to diagnostic criteria, CSF analysis, EMG, and the importance of neurological exams and MRIs. Treatment options such as IVIG and plasmapheresis are compared, along with the management of dysautonomia, including hemodynamic fluctuations and other autonomic problems. The episode concludes with insights on respiratory dysfunction, pulmonary function tests, intubation considerations, weaning strategies, and the connection between COVID-19 and Guillain-Barre Syndrome, ending with key pitfalls and pearls for managing GBS patients in the ICU.