DENTAL CARE IN THE INTENSIVE CARE UNIT FOR A PATIENT WITH GUILLAIN-BARRÉ SYNDROME

Abstract

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is an acute immune-mediated inflammatory polyradiculoneuropathy whose presentation includes tingling, progressive weakness, and pain. Immunoglobulins, plasmapheresis, and glucocorticoids are among the treatment modalities, however, supportive therapy in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) may be necessary. This report aims to describe the dental care provided to a patient with GBS admitted to an ICU, demonstrating the importance of a transplant dentist (DC) in this unit that promotes support for critically ill patients. A 19-year-old female patient was admitted to the adult ICU of a public reference hospital in the State of Amazonas, diagnosed with GBS. A team from the hospital dentistry extension project at the State University of Amazonas was called to evaluate the case due to dental pain complaints. The intraoral examination revealed unsatisfactory oral hygiene with biofilm and element 47 with deep caries. As a treatment, the team opted for pulpectomy of element 47, as the hypothesis of infectious endocarditis with a probable cause of odontogenic infection was believed. Given the above, it is concluded that the CD's role in a multidisciplinary team is essential for preparing an accurate and detailed diagnosis that improves the clinical condition of critically ill patients.