PLASMA EXCHANGE IN PATIENTS WITH THE DIAGNOSIS OF GUILLAIN-BARRE SYNDROME: AN EXPERIENCE IN INTENSIVE CARE UNIT

Abstract

Objective:

Methodology:

Results:

Conclusion:

Early referral to Intensive Care Unit, management of complications, good nursing care and

specific therapy with Plasma Exchange within seven days of onset of symptoms improve prognosis and

Plasma Exchange has proved beneficial to supportive treatment alone in Guillain-Barre syndrome with

minimal side effects.

Out of 28 patients 19 were male (67.85%) and 9 were female (32.14%). Mean age was 32.32

years and mean duration of stay in Intensive Care Unit was 6.32 days. Out of these 28 patients, 60.71%

(17) recovered and 39.3% (11) expired despite treatment and 2 patients developed adverse events

secondary to Plasma Exchange. In 25 (89.29%) patients breathlessness was reported as their major

symptom beside motor weakness, while in 19 (67.85%) patients, pain was also reported.

This descriptive study was conducted at Intensive Care Unit Lady Reading Hospital

Peshawar from March 2008 to July 2010. Twenty eight patients were included in study after fulfilling

inclusion criteria. All the diagnosed cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome were admitted in Intensive care Unit

Post Graduate Medical Institute Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar and 4 sessions of plasma Exchange

therapy was initiated in every patient after informed written consent.

To assess the effectiveness of plasma exchange in patients with Guillain-Barre syndrome.