Reasons for persistent disability in Guillain-Barre syndrome

The reasons for persistent disability in 10 Guillain-Barre syndrome patients were investigated. Patients were assessed between 11 and 35 months after disease onset with impairment, disability and handicap scales, a standard neurological examination and nerve conduction studies. All patients showed persistent limb weakness which affected independence in self-care in three patients and the pursuit of leisure and work activities in eight patients. The implications for clinical practice are discussed.