[Outcome after Guillain-Barré syndrome: comparison of motor function status and changes in social life]

Effects on the motor function and social life of the patients after Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) were studied. A letter of inquiry was sent to the patients in November 2001; 98 patients responded validly. The questionnaire had questions with 3 possible answers related to situations at work, at home, and about leisure activities. The Hughes functional grade, which evaluates physical conditions, and arm disability scale scores were assessed. Although the assessments showed good recovery in most patients who had had a job, 31% had to quit work, and 17% had to discontinue their leisure activities. These physical assessments accurately reflected the severity of the conditions of the patients given in-home care (8%) because daily life activities depend on muscle strength. Of the 75 patients who had no, or minimal, neurological symptoms or signs in both assessments, 53% reported one or more changes in their social lives. We conclude that the questionnaire answers show that GBS patients may have serious psychosocial outcomes that are not measurable by the usual physical assessments. These findings may be a help when considering the rehabilitation of GBS patients and their return to social life.