Abstract:
Background: Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a severe neurological disorder with significant
morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to assess the clinical characteristics, epidemiology,
and outcomes of GBS patients at Jimma Medical Center (JMC) in Ethiopia.
Methods: A retrospective and prospective study was conducted on GBS patients admitted to
JMC between 2017 and 2024. Data on socio-demographics, clinical presentation, diagnostic
findings, management, and outcomes were analyzed using descriptive statistics and survival
analysis.
Results: A total of 75 GBS patients were admitted, with a median age of 31 years (IQR: 24–42),
and 66.7% were male. Most patients (76%) resided in rural areas. Antecedent events were
identified in 56%, primarily upper respiratory tract infections (29.3%). The median time from
symptom onset to admission was 5 days (IQR: 3–7). Ascending muscle weakness (85.3%) was
the most common presentation, and 29.3% had respiratory muscle involvement. ICU admission
was required in 50.7% of cases, and 25.3% needed mechanical ventilation. Only 2.7% received
IV immunoglobulin, while the majority received supportive care. The in-hospital mortality rate
was 18.7%, with significantly lower survival among mechanically ventilated patients (p = 0.021).
Conclusions: GBS imposes a substantial burden at JMC, with high ICU admission and mortality
rates. Limited access to immunotherapy and advanced care contributes to poor outcomes. Early
diagnosis, improved supportive care, and increased awareness are essential for better
management of GBS in Ethiopia and similar low-resource settings
