GBS can affect children of all ages and social classes and affects both males and females. The incidence is one out of 100,000 children younger than 17 years of age. GBS is rarely diagnosed in children younger than 6 months of age.

Approximately 75 to 90 percent of the children diagnosed with GBS experience a full recovery with no further complications. Recovery often begins within a few weeks after the onset of symptoms.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed to confirm the diagnosis of Guillain-Barri syndrome may include the following:

The goal of treatment is to prevent breathing problems and provide supportive care (relief of symptoms) to your child. Medications are used to control pain and other conditions that may be present. Plasmapheresis, a procedure that removes abnormal antibodies from the blood and replaces a child's blood with normal antibodies through donated blood, may also be a part of your child's treatment plan. Another technique may be to administer a blood product, called immunoglobulin, through a vein. This gives your child's immune system a temporary increase by injecting normal antibodies.

The extent of the problem is dependent on the severity of the condition and the presence of other organ system problems that could affect your child. In severe cases, a breathing machine may be required to help your child breath easier

During the course of this condition, your child may develop stiff muscles and contracted joints. As your child recovers, physical, occupational, or speech therapy may be necessary to help him/her regain muscle strength and/or speech and swallowing skills

The healthcare team educates your family after hospitalization on how to best care for your child at home and outlines specific clinical problems that require immediate medical attention by his/her physician. A child with GBS requires frequent medical evaluations following hospitalization. Your child's recovery period requires adequate amounts of activity and rest.