Guillain-Barre Syndrome
Created | Updated Mar 26, 2004
There is now an
Edited Entry on this syndrome. So let me just add a few basic fun facts:
Experimental Treatments
Some of the scientists responsible for naming the syndrome and the original research tried some unique treatments. Landry experimented with using strychnine as a treatment, with unsuccessful and fatal results. Guillain and Barre tried a far more tempting treatment of Chops and Bordeaux wine. This experiment actually had positive results, but today's doctors unfortunately consider their success as a fluke.
Famous Patients
Joseph Heller, author of Catch-22, wrote a memoir of his experiences with Guillain-Barre entitled No Laughing Matter.
Actor Andy Griffith also experienced the disease while performing in the show Matlock. The season of his recovery corresponded with the season his character was wheelchair-bound.
