The value of comparing mortality of Guillain-Barré syndrome across different regions.

OBJECTIVE

To study the clinical profile of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) patients who died in 4 Asian countries in order to understand factors underlying any variation in mortality.

METHODS

Retrospectively reviewed medical records of GBS patients who died in 7 hospitals from 4 Asian countries between 2001 and 2012. Baseline characteristics, timing and causes of death were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 16 out of 261 GBS patients died. The overall mortality rate was 6%, with a range of 0 to 13%. The leading causes of death were respiratory infections, followed by myocardial infarction. The median age of our patients was 77 years. Half of the patients required mechanical ventilation and almost all had significant concomitant illnesses. A disproportionate number of patients in the Hong Kong cohort died (13%). Patients with advanced age, fewer antecedent respiratory infections and need for mechanical ventilation were at most risk. Most deaths occurred during the plateau phase of GBS and on the general ward after having initially received intensive care.

CONCLUSIONS

There is considerable variability in mortality of GBS among different Asian cohorts. Although the risks factors for mortality were similar to Western cohorts, the timing and site of death differed. This allows specific measures to be implemented to improve GBS care in countries with higher mortality.