The natural history of the Guillain-Barré syndrome in 18 children and 50 adults
Autor(es): Kleyweg R P,van der Meché F G,Loonen M C,de Jonge J,Knip B
Resumo: Plasma exchange (PE) is indicated in adult patients with a severe Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). For children this has not been proven. If the disease runs a milder course in children, the problems experienced with PE might outweight the benefit. In order to evaluate the need for such a specific treatment in children, we compared the severity of the disease between 18 children and 50 adults; no significant differences were found. The mean duration of hospitalisation of all children was 84 days, four children needed artificial ventilation for a mean of 21.5 days and two children died. We conclude therefore that PE is indicated in children with a severe GBS. The final decision, however, depends also on the practical feasibility of the procedure.
Imprenta: Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry, v. 52, n. 7, p. 853-856, 1989
Identificador do objeto digital: 10.1136/jnnp.52.7.853
Descritores: Guillain-Barre Syndrome - Public health
Data de publicação: 1989
