Purpose of review: Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) is the most common cause of acute flaccid paralysis in children. This review discusses the heterogeneous presentations of this disorder, the frequency of disease-related complications and the importance of assiduous clinical care in pediatric GBS.

Recent findings: Recent reports have highlighted the variable clinical and neurophysiologic subtypes of pediatric GBS, and emphasized the value of imaging in diagnosis of this disorder.

Summary: Diagnosis of pediatric GBS is often delayed because of its variable presentation. Early recognition and treatment decrease long-term morbidity and mortality. Recent research has cast light on the variable presentations and pathogenesis of the numerous subtypes of this condition, and is now focusing upon a better understanding of the natural history of GBS.