OBJECTIVES: This study aims to assess the treatment patterns and economic burden of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) through a systematic review of available literature.

METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar databases. Out of 430 identified studies, 23 were selected for data extraction after a thorough screening process. The data extraction was carried out from a societal perspective, which encompassed both direct and indirect costs related to GBS.

RESULTS: Most of the included studies highlighted intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) and plasmapheresis as the primary treatment strategies for GBS. A notable variability in treatment protocols and outcomes across different healthcare settings was observed. Economic evaluations underscored the significant financial burden associated with hospitalizations, rehabilitation, and long-term disability management for GBS patients, with an estimated direct medical cost of $16,428 per patient in the first year. In comparison, the costs associated with GBS were found to be 30 times higher than those related to diarrhea, contributing significantly to the national cost of illness due to bacterial infections. Moreover, a study conducted in South Korea reported an increased incidence rate of GBS, with 72% of cases linked to preceding infections, predominantly among children less than 10 years of age.

CONCLUSIONS: Early detection of GBS can play a crucial role in disease management. It imposes a substantial economic burden on healthcare systems and societies, far surpassing that of common gastrointestinal illnesses like diarrhea. These findings highlight the necessity for effective management strategies and healthcare policies to alleviate the financial impact of GBS, particularly in regions witnessing rising incidence rates. Further research is needed to standardize treatment protocols, enhance patient outcomes, and reduce healthcare costs associated with managing this uncommon neurological disorder.