Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) Versus Plasma Exchange (PE) for Ventilated Children With Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS)

Comparison of Intravenous Immunoglobulin and Plasma Exchange in Treatment of Mechanically Ventilated Children With Guillain Barre Syndrome. A Randomized Study.

Comparing whether intravenous immune globulin or plasma exchange is superior in treating mechanically ventilated children with Guillain Barre syndrome.

Children with Guillain Barre syndrome (GBS) admitted to PICU at Mansoura University Children Hospital, Mansoura, Egypt with the need for mechanical ventilation were prospectively enrolled in the study.

Cases were diagnosed according to clinical criteria. The decisions to initiate, wean and terminate mechanical ventilation were made independently by the attending consultant in accordance with the unit guidelines.

Outcome variables measured were duration of mechanical ventilation, length of PICU stay and ability to walk unaided 4 weeks after PICU discharge.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age: children from 1 month - 18 years old
• Clinical diagnosis of Guillain Barre syndrome
• Requirement of mechanical ventilation

Exclusion Criteria:

• Need for mechanical ventilation beyond 14 days from disease onset
• Child receiving IVIG or PE prior to enrollment