Prediction models for mechanical ventilation and outcome in Guillain-Barré syndrome

Various prediction models have been formulated to predict the need for mechanical ventilation (MV). In this study, we compare the sensitivity and specificity of Erasmus GBS Respiratory Insufficiency Score (EGRIS) and Sharshar score with single breath count (SBC) at 2 Hz to assess their usefulness in predicting MV and functional outcome. The primary outcome was prediction of MV and relative usefulness of all three models based on sensitivity and specificity. The secondary outcome was functional recovery at 6 months using the cut off points for MV and functional outcome at 6months was assessed using Hughes scale and categorized as good (<2) and poor (≥2). The median age was 30 years, and 64 (69.6%) were males. The sensitivity and specificity of EGRIS score was 78.1% and 67.2%, Sharshar score was 75.0% and 64.1%, and SBC at 2 Hz was 78.1% and 75.0%. The area under the receiver operating curves was maximum for SBC at 2 Hz (0.86) compared to other models, although insignificant. EGRIS score < 5 had better functional recovery compared to those with score ≥ 5 (66% vs 34%, p = 0.001). Similarly, in Sharshar score, 23/59 (39%) with score ≥ 4 had good recovery compared to 36 (61%) with score < 4 (p = 0.01). All the three models have comparable predictive values for MV. Outcome prediction is the best with EGRIS.