In 1916, Guillain-Barr syndrome (GBS), also known as Landry-Guillain-Barr-Strohl syndrome, was described. Its incidence in North America and Europe ranges from 0.8 to 1.9 cases per 100,000 population.

GBS is usually a predominantly motor disorder with areflexia and subjective more than objective sensory symptoms. GBS is the most common cause of acute flaccid paralysis worldwide, particularly with the almost complete eradication of poliomyelitis.