Several factors have been found associated with poor prognosis in patients with Guillain-Barre Syndrome, even if the patient receives plasmapheresis.
Risk factors for a poor prognosis:
(1) advanced age (> 60 years of age; Barohn et al use > 50-60)
(2) rapid onset prior to presentation
(3) need for mechanical ventilation (Grade 5, Hughes, 1978)
(4) severely reduced distal motor amplitudes (<= 20% of normal)
(5) preceding infections (diarrheal illness with Campylobacter jejuni, cytomegalovirus infection)
Presence of one or more of these risk factors may be associated with a more prolonged course and delayed recovery.
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Specialty: Neurology, Immunology/Rheumatology, Infectious Diseases
