Neuromuscular Disorders in the Intensive Care Unit.

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW\nThis article discusses the pathophysiology, presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of common neuromuscular disorders seen in the intensive care unit, including Guillain-Barré syndrome, myasthenia gravis, and intensive care unit-acquired weakness.\n\n\nRECENT FINDINGS\nGuillain-Barré syndrome can have an excellent prognosis if patients are diagnosed early, appropriately treated, and monitored for complications, including respiratory failure and dysautonomia. Intensive care unit-acquired weakness increases overall mortality in patients who are critically ill, and distinguishing between critical illness myopathy and critical illness polyneuropathy may have important prognostic implications.\n\n\nSUMMARY\nNeuromuscular disorders are not rare in the intensive care unit setting, and precise identification and treatment of these conditions can greatly impact long-term outcomes.