Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare neurological disorder that causes the body's immune system to mistakenly attack the nerves. This leads to muscle weakness, numbness, and in severe cases, paralysis.  

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In cases involving GBS, failures in care may have serious consequences for patients, including making the condition worse, prolonging recovery times, causing permanent disability, or even death.

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Children can get GBS, but it is rare and therefore is not always on the health professional’s radar.

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These are some common examples of medical negligence related to Guillain-Barré Syndrome:

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Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis

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If healthcare professionals fail to recognise the symptoms of GBS, such as progressive muscle weakness, tingling sensations, and difficulty breathing, this could lead to a delay in diagnosis.  

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Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis can result in delayed treatment and potentially worsen the patient's condition.

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Failure to Monitor Respiratory Function

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GBS can lead to weakness in respiratory muscles, and this means that the patient’s lung function needs to be closely monitored.  

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If healthcare providers fail to monitor lung function adequately or delay starting treatment such as mechanical ventilation when respiratory failure occurs, then this could be negligent if it causes harm.

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Failure to Recognise Complications related to Guillain-Barré Syndrome

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GBS can lead to serious complications with the nervous system, heart, or the blood pressure.  

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If these complications are not recognised promptly and managed, it could lead to serious problems, and this could be negligent.

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Inadequate Rehabilitation Services after Guillain-Barré Syndrome

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After the acute phase of Guillain-Barré Syndrome, patients may require rehabilitation services to regain strength and function. It is important to provide appropriate rehabilitation therapy or discharge planning to avoid long-term disability or impaired quality of life for the patient.