A Case of Guillain-Barré Syndrome in a Primary Care Setting

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is an immune-mediated peripheral neuropathy characterized by rapidly progressive symmetrical ascending weakness and sensory loss. The disease can progress rapidly and be fatal if diagnosis and treatment interventions are delayed. In most patients, the neuropathic symptoms are preceded by an antecedent infection. The patient may present with initial symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection or gastroenteritis. This article presents a case report of GBS, followed by a detailed discussion of the pathophysiology, diagnostic studies, differential diagnosis, types, prognosis, and management of patients with this condition.