Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Numerous studies have investigated predictors for mechanical ventilation (MV) in Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), with varying results. This study identifies factors associated with MV in both populations in Vietnam. METHODS: We retrospectively collected data on GBS patients at Children's Hospital 2 and the University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City from 2017 to 2021. Clinical characteristics were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression to identify predictors of MV. A bootstrapping stepwise approach was used to select the most appropriate predictors for the model. RESULTS: A total of 108 adults and 112 children were included, with 15 adults (13.8 %) and 10 children (8.9 %) requiring MV. Dysautonomia and facial palsy/bulbar weakness were more common in ventilated patients (P < 0.05). Multivariable analysis identified dysautonomia as the only significant predictor for MV in both adults (OR: 7.43, 95 % CI: 1.78-30.98) and children (OR: 13.6, 95 % CI: 1.20-154.79). CONCLUSIONS: Dysautonomia is a significant predictor of MV in adults and children with GBS. Although facial palsy and bulbar weakness were not statistically significant predictors, their presence warrants careful monitoring. SIGNIFICANCE: This study provides insights into GBS in Vietnam and underscores dysautonomia as a predictor for MV, distinguishing it from findings in previous prognostic models.