Variants and Mimics of Guillain Barré Syndrome

Numbness on the Medical Take: An Atypical Presentation of Guillain-Barre Syndrome With Unilateral Paraesthesia and Rapid Progression to Bulbar Palsy: A Case Report

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is characterized classically by progressive and symmetrical motor weakness and areflexia. We describe a case of GBS with initially preserved reflexes and power, leading to delayed diagnosis, who latterly required urgent ventilator support and plasmapharesis to highlight the importance of considering atypical presentations of this common condition.

A Rare Presentation of Guillain-Barré Syndrome With Associated Horner Syndrome: A Case Report

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an acute inflammatory polyradiculoneuropathy involving the peripheral nervous system. Autonomic dysfunctions are well-known complications of GBS and are major contributors to mortality. Autonomic dysfunctions are classically described during the acute phase of illness. In the literature, Horner syndrome as a manifestation of GBS has been reported in very few cases. Here, we describe a case of GBS with an acute presentation of flaccid paraparesis associated with unilateral Horner syndrome. Detecting the cause of acute flaccid paraparesis with unilateral Horner syndrome poses a diagnostic challenge, making it crucial for clinicians to maintain a heightened awareness for distinguishing between GBS and its variants, as well as other potential mimics.

Concomitant Occurrence of Acute Motor Axonal Neuropathy in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

ABSTRACT

Few case reports exist on the association of acute motor axonal neuropathy, a subtype of the Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), with systemic lupus erythematosus. Standard therapeutic guidelines for concomitant acute motor axonal neuropathy and systemic lupus erythematosus in the acute phase are not established, and no studies have reported physical medicine and rehabilitation perspective management in the plateau and recovery phases. A 50-yr-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus presented with upper and lower limb weakness that progressed to an inability to walk. Neurological examination, radiologic evaluation, serologic analysis, and electrodiagnostic study were conducted, and she was diagnosed with acute motor axonal neuropathy. Subsequently, intravenous immunoglobulin therapy was administered. She complained of residual upper and lower extremity weakness and an inability to walk 3 mos after symptom onset. She underwent an intensive inpatient rehabilitation program for 6 wks and showed remarkable recovery in muscle strength and functional status (Berg Balance Scale, modified Barthel index, and Guillain-Barré syndrome disability scale). To our knowledge, this is the first reported case that focused on the functional outcomes after the rehabilitation program in acute motor axonal neuropathy with a history of systemic lupus erythematosus. This case report emphasizes the need for rehabilitation intervention for functional recovery in the plateau and recovery phases.

Guillain-Barré syndrome AMSAN variant in a 90-year-old woman after COVID-19: a case report

BACKGROUND

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an inflammatory disease of the peripheral nervous system characterized by rapidly evolving polyneuropathy caused by autoimmune demyelination and/or axonal degeneration. Since SARS-CoV-2 outbreak, several GBS cases following exposure to coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) have been reported in literature, raising the concern of the latter being a potential trigger event for GBS.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report the case of a 90-year-old Caucasian woman who was admitted to our hospital because of fatigue, worsening gait and leg strength, dysphonia, dysarthria and dysphagia, started 3 weeks after being exposed to COVID-19. Based on clinical presentation GBS was suspected, so she performed a lumbar puncture and electromyography, which confirmed the diagnosis of acute motor and sensory axonal neuropathy (AMSAN) variant. We administered high dose of intravenous immunoglobulin with slight neurological improvement. However, after 2 weeks of hospitalization with maximization of care, her physical condition worsen, manifesting severe frailty. The patient was discharged with home support services for managing parenteral nutrition and intense scheduled physiotherapy. A few days later, the patient experienced a further decline in her clinical condition and died at home.

CONCLUSIONS

To the best of our knowledge, we report the oldest woman with GBS AMSAN variant after COVID-19 described in the existing literature. Our case supports further research aimed at improving recognition, characterization and prompt management of neurological diseases related to COVID-19 in older patients.

A Rare Case of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus With Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage and Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune systemic disease with many organ involvements with high morbidity and mortality percentage. It's unusual for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) to present with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) as the earliest presentation. Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) refers to the effusion of blood into the alveoli due to damaged pulmonary microvasculature. It's a rare but severe complication of systemic lupus associated with a high mortality rate. It occurs in three different overlapping phenotypes, which are acute capillaritis, bland pulmonary hemorrhage, and diffuse alveolar damage. diffuse alveolar hemorrhage develops in a short period of time (hours to days). Central and peripheral nervous system complications generally develop during the course of the illness and actually uncommonly from the beginning of the illness. Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is a rare autoimmune polyneuropathy usually occurring post-viral, post-vaccination, or surgery. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been associated with several neuropsychiatric manifestations and the development of GBS. GBS as the first presentation of SLE is exceedingly rare. Here, we present the case of a patient with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage and Guillain-Barre syndrome as an atypical presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) flare.

Electrophysiological and functional signs of Guillain-Barré syndrome predicted by a multiscale neuromuscular computational model

Objective. The diagnosis of nerve disorders in humans has relied heavily on the measurement of electrical signals from nerves or muscles in response to electrical stimuli applied at appropriate locations on the body surface. The present study investigated the demyelinating subtype of Guillain-Barré syndrome using multiscale computational model simulations to verify how demyelination of peripheral axons may affect plantar flexion torque as well as the ongoing electromyogram (EMG) during voluntary isometric or isotonic contractions. Approach. Changes in axonal conduction velocities, mimicking those found in patients with the disease at different stages, were imposed on a multiscale computational neuromusculoskeletal model to simulate subjects performing unipodal plantar flexion force and position tasks. Main results. The simulated results indicated changes in the torque signal during the early phase of the disease while performing isotonic tasks, as well as in torque variability after partial conduction block while performing both isometric and isotonic tasks. Our results also indicated changes in the root mean square values and in the power spectrum of the soleus EMG signal as well as changes in the synchronisation index computed from the firing times of the active motor units. All these quantitative changes in functional indicators suggest that the adoption of such additional measurements, such as torques and ongoing EMG, could be used with advantage in the diagnosis and be relevant in providing extra information for the neurologist about the level of the disease. Significance. Our findings enrich the knowledge of the possible ways demyelination affects force generation and position control during plantarflexion. Moreover, this work extends computational neuroscience to computational neurology and shows the potential of biologically compatible neuromuscular computational models in providing relevant quantitative signs that may be useful for diagnosis in the clinic, complementing the tools traditionally used in neurological electrodiagnosis.

Outcomes of patients presenting with Guillain-Barre Syndrome at a tertiary care center in India

Background

The Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), also known as acute idiopathic polyneuritis, is a critical acquired condition associated with preceding nonspecific infection or triggering factors like trauma, surgery, or vaccination. GBS is currently the most frequent cause of acute flaccid paralysis in India. This study evaluates the short-term and in-hospital outcomes in different subtypes of GBS.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted at V.S. Hospital, Ahmedabad, from September 2015 to December 2017. Patients above the age of 12 were included. Patients having other underlying neurological conditions, as well as immunodeficiency disorders, were excluded. The patients were classified into different subtypes of GBS, and functional outcomes were recorded on admission and discharge according to Hughes Scoring System. All statistical analyses were performed by using SPSS software.

Results

Out of 50 patients, 35 (70%) were males. The mean age was of 37.18 +/− 18.35 years. 25 (50%) patients had a preceding infection. 88% of patients presented with cranial nerve (CN) involvement had a Hughes Score of >/= 3 (p = 0.0087). They had less improvement of Hughes Score on discharge (0.13 +/− 0.04) as compared to the patients without cranial nerve involvement (0.38 +/− 0.08) (p = 0.008). Respiratory involvement was associated with a higher Hughes Score (p = 0.005) on admission. 85% of patients diagnosed with an axonal subtype of GBS had a Hughes Score of >/= 3 (p = 0.06) compared to 74% patients with demyelinating subtype. Axonal subtype required double period (11 +/− 2.34) to show improvement as compared to demyelinating subtype (6 +/− 1.2) (p = 0.020). Irrespective of the subtypes, in two different treatment cohorts (PLEX vs IVIG), there was no difference in short term functional outcomes measured by improvement in the Hughes scores (p = 0.89).

Conclusions

Early cranial nerve and respiratory involvement in patients presenting with GBS are associated with poor outcomes warranting immediate critical care involvement. In our study, amongst all the subtypes, axonal had poor clinical outcomes. Further clinical trials on the Indian subpopulation will help us evaluate the impact of different treatment modalities on this disease.

Post-COVID-19 Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A Case Report With Literature Review

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) predominantly affects the respiratory system with manifestations ranging from a mild upper respiratory tract infection to severe acute respiratory distress syndrome. Neurological manifestations of COVID-19 are mainly thrombotic manifestations affecting the nervous system; however, demyelinating manifestation has been less defined. Although some recent studies have described the association between COVID-19 and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), the strength of association and features of GBS in this setting are not yet clear. Here, we report one adult case of COVID-19 infection presenting with acute GBS, which was not preceded by any other respiratory, gastrointestinal, or other systemic infections. We performed a literature search in Medline via PubMed using the keywords or MeSH terms "COVID-19" or "SARS-CoV-2" and "Guillain-Barré syndrome" and "AIDP" and "AMAN," "Miller-Fischer syndrome" or "MFS." We reviewed 99 case reports, 38 reviews, and two meta-analyses. Several published reports have described a possible association between GBS and COVID-19 infection.

Colistin neurotoxicity mimicking Guillain-Barré syndrome in a patient with cystic fibrosis: case report and review

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an immune-mediated polyneuropathy, which is characterized by areflexia and ascending paresthesia which can progress to a respiratory failure. Certain conditions, such as vasculitis and heavy metal and drug toxicity, may have misleadingly similar clinical presentation to GBS. We describe a case of a patient with cystic fibrosis and intravenous colistin-induced neurotoxicity mimicking GBS. The patient had used inhaled colistin on five occasions with no adverse effects, however, developed symptoms on the second day of intravenous treatment. Overlapping findings between immune-mediated polyneuropathy and drug-induced neurotoxicity include limb paresthesia and decreased reflexes. Perioral tingling, however, is a common presentation of colistin-induced neurotoxicity, and therefore, is an important differentiating factor. Early diagnosis prevents further neurologic decline, extensive unnecessary workup and potentially harmful incorrect management.

R, Navin B, Khanna M, Asranna A, Patil R. Rare Clinical Presentation in a Case of Pediatric Guillain-Barré Syndrome and Rehabilitation Outcome

Nearly half of patients with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) have cranial nerve involvement. Ocular muscle weakness or ophthalmoplegia occurs in ~10% of these patients. Patients presenting with bilateral ptosis, with or without ophthalmoplegia, is a rare finding. Anti-GQ1b antibody has been found in Miller Fisher syndrome and GBS with ophthalmoplegia variants. We report a case of GBS in a young boy presenting with rare presentation of tetraplegia, bilateral ptosis, and facial palsy, no ataxia but ophthalmoplegia with seronegative anti-GQ1b antibody. Patient showed recovery in cranial nerves involvement as well as with motor and functional recovery after 3 weeks of inpatient rehabilitation (Barthel Index score improved to 60/100 at the time of discharge from 20/100 at the time of admission). He was independent for most of the activity of daily livings including ambulation at the time of discharge from rehabilitation unit ( p < 0.001).

Guillain-Barré syndrome with associated unilateral ptosis without ophthalmoplegia - a rare presentation: a case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Guillain-Barré syndrome is an acute inflammatory polyradiculoneuropathy. Nearly half of patients with Guillain-Barré syndrome have cranial nerve involvement. However, isolated bilateral ptosis without ophthalmoplegia is a rare manifestation, and isolated unilateral ptosis without ophthalmoplegia in Guillain-Barré syndrome has not previously been reported in the literature. Furthermore, only few cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome with cranial nerve enhancement visualized by gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging have previously been reported. We describe the first reported case of unilateral ptosis without ophthalmoplegia in Guillain-Barré syndrome and associated multiple cranial nerve enhancement seen by gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging.

CASE PRESENTATION

Our patient was a 55-year-old Sinhalese man who was admitted to a tertiary care hospital in Sri Lanka with acute-onset progressive weakness in the lower limbs followed by the upper limbs. He had bilateral symmetrical flaccid quadriparesis with absent reflexes and flexor plantar response. Left-sided isolated partial ptosis without associated ophthalmoplegia was noted with normal pupils. The patient's neurological examination was otherwise normal. A nerve conduction study showed a severe demyelinating type of polyneuropathy. No decremental response to repetitive nerve stimulation was observed, and the result of a single-muscle-fiber electromyogram was negative. A diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome was made, and the patient was treated with intravenous immunoglobulin. His condition gradually deteriorated over the next few days, and he became quadriplegic despite the completion of immunoglobulin therapy. Later he developed multiple cranial nerve palsies, including bi-lateral lower motor neuron type facial nerve palsy, and he required mechanical ventilation. By this time, he had complete left-sided ptosis with a normal right eye. He never developed ophthalmoplegia or ataxia. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed contrast enhancement in the intracranial part of multiple cranial nerve roots and basal leptomeninges. He gradually improved with plasmaparesis, and ptosis was the first to improve.

CONCLUSIONS

Even though Guillain-Barré syndrome was recognized a century ago, there are still many unanswered questions about it and its florid presentation. Large-scale studies are needed for better understanding of its pathophysiology and prototypes and to find answers for still-unanswered questions. The clinician must have a high index of suspicion and be familiar with mimics and prototypes to diagnose Guillain-Barré syndrome accurately without delay.

Is Bilateral Facial Paralysis an Indicator of Respiratory Outcome in Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

Background and objectives: Bilateral facial paralysis is a rare and specific clinical manifestation of various neurological disorders. Bilateral facial paralysis has been reported as an essential feature of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) for many years. We aim to describe the incidence of bilateral facial paralysis and prognosis in our GBS patients. Materials and Methods: A retrospective chart review of all patients with GBS and bilateral facial paralysis who were treated at the Inönü University Medical Faculty was performed. Results: A total of 45 cases of GBS were reviewed. Four out of 45 patients (8.8%) had associated bilateral facial paralysis. Only one of the patients also had acute multiple cranial neuropathies. All patients experienced sudden deterioration and respiratory distress. In one of our patients who had multiple cranial neuropathies, serum antiganglioside antibody assay was performed, and anti-GQ1b IgG antibody positivity was observed. The cerebrospinal fluid had albuminocytological dissociation in all patients, and axonal involvement was present in nerve conduction studies (NCS). Three patients improved with immunotherapy; one patient died due to cardiac arrest after resistant hypotension. Conclusion: Bilateral facial paralysis is a rare condition in children. We wanted to emphasize bilateral facial involvement and poor prognosis in our GBS patients.

Porfiria intermitente aguda como desencadenante de síndrome de Guillain-Barre

Introducción. La porfiria es un conjunto de enfermedades metabólicas que tienen como base fisiopatológica la acumulación de precursores tóxicos. Su similitud clínica con enfermedades como el síndrome de Guillain-Barre puede retrasar el diagnostico, aumentando la posibilidad de complicaciones.Presentación del caso. Paciente femenino quien presentó síntomas inespecíficos de porfiria y síndrome de Guillain-Barre. La mujer fue evaluada de manera integral y recibió tratamiento para ambas patologías, respondiendo de manera inusual.Conclusión. La respuesta farmacológica atípica encontrada y la relación causa-efecto entre ambas entidades se justifica a la luz de sus procesos fisiopatológicos y la respuesta inmune desencadenada por los mismos.

Guillain-Barré syndrome in children: subtypes and outcome

OBJECTIVE

This study reviews the clinical features, subtypes, and outcomes of childhood Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS).

METHODS

Fifty-four children who attended a tertiary care training and research hospital in Turkey were enrolled in the study.

RESULTS

The mean age was 6.5 ± 4.2 years and 32 patients (59.5%) were male. The most common subtype of GBS was acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP), which was seen in 27 patients (50%). Having antecedent history, especially upper respiratory tract infection was significantly more common in AIDP (P = 0.028). Sensorial symptoms were significantly more frequent in axonal type GBS (P = 0.001). When we compare the demyelinating and axonal forms, all of the groups had favorable outcome.

CONCLUSION

The diagnosis of pediatric GBS can be delayed because of its variable presentation. Early admission to hospital and early treatment are important for decreasing the need for respiratory support and improving the outcome.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article reviews the current state of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), including its clinical presentation, evaluation, pathophysiology, and treatment.

RECENT FINDINGS

GBS is an acute/subacute-onset polyradiculoneuropathy typically presenting with sensory symptoms and weakness over several days, often leading to quadriparesis. Approximately 70% of patients report a recent preceding upper or lower respiratory tract infection or gastrointestinal illness. Approximately 30% of patients require intubation and ventilation because of respiratory failure. Nerve conduction studies in the acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP) form of GBS typically show evidence for a multifocal demyelinating process, including conduction block or temporal dispersion in motor nerves. Sural sparing is a common phenomenon when testing sensory nerves. CSF analysis commonly shows an elevated protein, but this elevation may not be present until the third week of the illness. Patients with AIDP are treated with best medical management and either IV immunoglobulin (IVIg) or plasma exchange.

SUMMARY

GBS is a common form of acute quadriparesis; a high level of suspicion is needed for early diagnosis. With appropriate therapy, most patients make a very good to complete recovery.

Systemic lupus erythematosus with Guillian-Barre syndrome: A case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION

We report a case of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with Guillian-Barre syndrome (GBS) as the first symptom.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 30-year-old Chinese female with numbness and inductance of lower extremities 2 months previously. The electromyographic and cerebrospinal fluid findings supported inflammatory demyelinating disease, and the renal biopsy findings and rheumatoid-related results considered systemic lupus erythematosus. The patient received treatment with glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide. Two months after the treatment, the patient's limb numbness and weakness disappeared, and the urinary protein was decreased significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

Our case highlights the importance of the early diagnosis and treatment of SLE. Systemic lupus erythematosus is a multifactorial participant autoimmune systemic disease for which the clinical manifestations are complex and diverse. Glucocorticoid and cytotoxic drugs can be used in clinical treatment. If the disease is not diagnosed early, it could also delay treatment. Patients who receive an early diagnosis and appropriate treatment may have a better prognosis.

DATA SOURCES

Data were collected from the patient's electronic medical records and the hospital laboratory medicine database.

An assessment of public health surveillance of Zika virus infection and potentially associated outcomes in Latin America

BACKGROUND

We evaluated whether outbreaks of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection, newborn microcephaly, and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) in Latin America may be detected through current surveillance systems, and how cases detected through surveillance may increase health care burden.

METHODS

We estimated the sensitivity and specificity of surveillance case definitions using published data. We assumed a 10% ZIKV infection risk during a non-outbreak period and hypothetical increases in risk during an outbreak period. We used sensitivity and specificity estimates to correct for non-differential misclassification, and calculated a misclassification-corrected relative risk comparing both periods. To identify the smallest hypothetical increase in risk resulting in a detectable outbreak we compared the misclassification-corrected relative risk to the relative risk corresponding to the upper limit of the endemic channel (mean + 2 SD). We also estimated the proportion of false positive cases detected during the outbreak. We followed the same approach for microcephaly and GBS, but assumed the risk of ZIKV infection doubled during the outbreak, and ZIKV infection increased the risk of both diseases.

RESULTS

ZIKV infection outbreaks were not detectable through non-serological surveillance. Outbreaks were detectable through serologic surveillance if infection risk increased by at least 10%, but more than 50% of all cases were false positive. Outbreaks of severe microcephaly were detected if ZIKV infection increased prevalence of this condition by at least 24.0 times. When ZIKV infection did not increase the prevalence of severe microcephaly, 34.7 to 82.5% of all cases were false positive, depending on diagnostic accuracy. GBS outbreaks were detected if ZIKV infection increased the GBS risk by at least seven times. For optimal GBS diagnosis accuracy, the proportion of false positive cases ranged from 29 to 54% and from 45 to 56% depending on the incidence of GBS mimics.

CONCLUSIONS

Current surveillance systems have a low probability of detecting outbreaks of ZIKV infection, severe microcephaly, and GBS, and could result in significant increases in health care burden, due to the detection of large numbers of false positive cases. In view of these limitations, Latin American countries should consider alternative options for surveillance.

Papulonodular mucinosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome and nephrotic syndrome in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus: a case report

BACKGROUND

Awareness of the spectrum of clinical manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), especially uncommon changes, is essential for diagnosis and effective management of patients.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 26-year-old Chinese man with SLE initially manifested cutaneous papulonodular mucinosis and developed acute Guillain-Barré syndrome and class V lupus nephritis 2 years later. His cutaneous nodules had not been idententified for 2 years and were resected by surgical procedures twice until SLE was diagnosed. The kidney biopsy revealed class V lupus nephritis. The patient responded well to a short course of intravenous immunoglobulins and his muscle strength almost completely recovered. So far, he has undergone five cycles of cyclophosphamide combined with hydroxychloroquine and tapering prednisone, resulting in partial remission of lupus nephritis and disappearance of hypocomplementemia.

CONCLUSION

We reported a rare case of male patient with SLE with manifestation of class V lupus nephritis, Guillain-Barré syndrome and papulonodular mucinosis.

Splenic marginal zone lymphoma: An indolent malignancy leading to the development of neurolymphomatosis

INTRODUCTION

Acute neuropathic pain and weakness with a sensory level in a patient with a history of lymphoma has a broad differential diagnosis. Evaluation of such a presentation often includes MRI, neurophysiologic studies, and cerebrospinal fluid evaluation. We report a patient with splenic marginal zone lymphoma who developed acute weakness, sensory loss, and neuropathic pain due to neurolymphomatosis.

METHODS

Clinical evaluation, MRI of the lumbar spine, cerebrospinal fluid evaluation, electrodiagnostic (EDx) studies, and biopsy of a dorsal nerve root were undertaken.

RESULTS

EDx studies were consistent with an acute, acquired demyelinating sensorimotor polyradiculoneuropathy. Treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin and plasma exchange did not lead to clinical improvement. Ultimately, biopsy of a dorsal nerve root was performed and revealed neurolymphomatosis.

CONCLUSION

This case emphasizes that, when it can be performed safely, biopsy for suspected neurolymphomatosis is imperative for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Muscle Nerve 55: 440-444, 2017.

Guillain-Barré syndrome with hyperreflexia and bilateral papillitis in a child

Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) is an acute inflammatory polyneuropathy characterized by rapidly progressive symmetric weakness, and areflexia. Areflexia is necessary for the diagnosis of GBS. However, recently there have been studies of hyperreflexia with axonal neuropathy form of GBS. We report a 14-year-old boy with GBS, who presented with hyperreflexia and bilateral papillitis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first pediatric patient presenting with papillitis and hyperreflexia with acute motor and sensory axonal neuropathy form of GBS.

Peripheral neuropathies

Peripheral neuropathies are diseases of the peripheral nervous system that can be divided into mononeuropathies, multifocal neuropathies, and polyneuropathies. Symptoms usually include numbness and paresthesia. These symptoms are often accompanied by weakness and can be painful. Polyneuropathies can be divided into axonal and demyelinating forms, which is important for diagnostic reasons. Most peripheral neuropathies develop over months or years, but some are rapidly progressive. Some patients only suffer from mild, unilateral, slowly progressive tingling in the fingers due to median nerve compression in the wrist (carpal tunnel syndrome), while other patients can be tetraplegic, with respiratory insufficiency within 1-2 days due to Guillain-Barré syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome, with a prevalence of 5% and incidence of 1-2 per 1000 person-years, is the most common mononeuropathy. Population-based data for chronic polyneuropathy are relatively scarce. Prevalence is estimated at 1% and increases to 7% in persons over 65 years of age. Incidence is approximately 1 per 1000 person-years. Immune-mediated polyneuropathies like Guillain-Barré syndrome and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy are rare diseases, with an annual incidence of approximately 1-2 and 0.2-0.5 per 100 000 persons respectively. Most peripheral neuropathies are more prevalent in older adults and in men, except for carpal tunnel syndrome, which is more common in women. Diabetes is a common cause of peripheral neuropathy and is associated with both mono- and polyneuropathies. Among the group of chronic polyneuropathies, in about 20-25% no direct cause can be found. These are slowly progressive axonal polyneuropathies.

Investigation of suspected Guillain-Barre syndrome in childhood: what is the role for gadolinium enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the spine?

AIM

To review the role of gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the spine in the diagnosis of paediatric Guillain-Barre syndrome and compare it with nerve conduction studies and cerebrospinal fluid analysis.

METHODS

A retrospective review of investigations undertaken in children admitted to our institution with acute Guillain-Barre syndrome over a 10-year period was performed.

RESULTS

Seven of eight children (88%) displayed post-gadolinium nerve root enhancement consistent with Guillain-Barre syndrome. This compared with supportive nerve conduction studies in 21/24 children (88%) and cerebrospinal fluid protein analysis consistent with the diagnosis in 16/20 children (80%).

CONCLUSION

Nerve conduction studies are the recognised 'gold standard' technique for confirming a clinical diagnosis of Guillain-Barre syndrome. In this study, a high positive rate was demonstrated. While more experience is necessary, this study and the literature support gadolinium enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the spine as a valuable, although not necessarily superior, investigation in the diagnosis of Guillain-Barre syndrome. It may be of particular benefit when specialist neurophysiology expertise is unavailable.

Bilateral claw hand: an uncommon presentation of regional Guillain-Barré syndrome

We present an uncommon case of a 38-year-old man presented with bilateral subacute weakness of intrinsic hand muscles, manifesting as bilateral claw-hand, without sensory deficits and absent tendon reflexes in upper arms. Nerve conduction studies showed findings consistent with demyelinating GBS. During the fourth day of hospitalization the patient presented symmetrical distal leg weakness and was treated with intravenous immunoglobulin.

Diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome and validation of Brighton criteria

Guillain-Barré syndrome is an acute polyradiculoneuropathy with a variable clinical presentation. Accurate diagnostic criteria are essential for patient care and research, including clinical trials and vaccine safety studies. Several diagnostic criteria for Guillain-Barré syndrome have been proposed, including the recent set by the Brighton Collaboration. In the present study we describe in detail the key diagnostic features required to meet these Brighton criteria in a study population of 494 adult patients with Guillain-Barré syndrome, previously included in therapeutic and observational studies. The patients had a median age of 53 years (interquartile range 36-66 years) and males slightly predominated (56%). All patients developed bilateral limb weakness which generally involved both upper and lower extremities. The weakness remained restricted to the legs in 6% and to the arms in 1% of the patients. Decreased reflexes in paretic arms or legs were found initially in 91% of patients and in all patients during follow-up. Ten (2%) patients however showed persistence of normal reflexes in paretic arms. Disease nadir was reached within 2 weeks in 80%, within 4 weeks in 97% and within 6 weeks in all patients. A monophasic disease course occurred in 95% of patients, of whom 10% had a treatment-related fluctuation. A clinical deterioration after 8 weeks of onset of weakness occurred in 23 (5%) patients. Cerebrospinal fluid was examined in 474 (96%) patients. A mild pleocytosis (5 to 50 cells/μl) was found in 15%, and none had more than 50 cells/μl. An increased cerebrospinal fluid protein concentration was found only in 64% of patients, highly dependent on the timing of the lumbar puncture after onset of weakness (49% at the first day to 88% after 2 weeks). Nerve electrophysiology was compatible with the presence of a neuropathy in 99% of patients, but only 59% fulfilled the current criteria for a distinct subtype of Guillain-Barré syndrome. Patients with a complete data set (335) were classified according to the Brighton criteria, ranging from a high to a low level of diagnostic certainty, as level 1 in 61%, level 2 in 33%, level 3 in none, and level 4 in 6% of patients. Patients categorized in these levels did not differ with respect to proportion of patients with preceding events, initial clinical manifestations or outcome. The observed variability in the key diagnostic features of Guillain-Barré syndrome in the current cohort study, can be used to improve the sensitivity of the diagnostic criteria.

A Rare Form of Guillan Barre Syndrome: A Child Diagnosed with Anti-GD1a and Anti-GD1b Positive Pharyngeal-Cervical-Brachial Variant

BACKGROUND

Pharyngeal-cervical-brachial (PCB) variant is a rare form of Guillan-Barre Syndrome (GBS). Antibodies against other membrane proteins like GM1b and GD1a have been found only in a small number of patients with Guillan Barre syndrome variant.

CASE REPORT

Here, we report a 5.5 year-old boy diagnosed early with positive GD1a and GD1b gangliosides of Guillan-Barre syndrome pharyngeal cervical-Brachial variant, who improved and recovered fully in a short period. This is in contrast to those whose recovery period prolongs in spite of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment and/or those who experience incomplete recovery.

CONCLUSION

In summary, diagnosis of PCB variant of GBS should be considered in infants with sudden onset bulbar symptoms and muscle weakness, and it should be kept in mind that early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can give successful outcomes.

Multiple cranial neuropathy (a teaching case)

There are few reports of the multiple cranial neuropathy variant of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). Patients usually present with facial diplegia, lower cranial nerve involvement and hypo or areflexia. It is crucial to identify promptly this unusual cranial variant but the clinical characteristics remain poorly defined. This GBS variant usually has a rapid progressive course with respiratory muscle paralysis. Most of the patients recover well, although the process is slow. We report a 54 year old man presenting with facial diplegia, progressive ophthalmoplegia, lower cranial nerve involvement, sensory ataxia and generalized areflexia. This GBS variant is very unusual and seldom described in the literature; it is oftenly misdiagnosed. The clinical features and nerve conduction studies (absent F-waves, motor conduction block) provide evidence to support a diagnosis of an acute demyelinating polyneuropathy consistent with a regional cranial variant of GBS.

Efficacy of low-dose intravenous cyclophosphamide in systemic lupus erythematosus presenting with Guillain-Barre syndrome-like acute axonal neuropathies: report of two cases

There are few cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), particularly of atypical variants, occurring in association with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE). Reports addressing a specific therapy thus remain almost anecdotal. It is therefore challenging to determine the treatment that is best suited for this subset of patients, especially if initial conventional therapy for GBS fails. We present two cases of GBS-like acute axonal neuropathies, one with acute motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN), and another with acute motor sensory axonal neuropathy (AMSAN), presenting early in the course of SLE. The first case failed to respond to therapy with intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) and plasmapheresis, but achieved a favorable outcome when high-dose glucocorticoids along with low-dose intravenous (IV) cyclophosphamide pulses were given. The second case responded favorably to high-dose glucocorticoids, IVIG, and low-dose IV cyclophosphamide pulses. Both patients have remained in clinical remission and without neurologic sequelae after 10 and three years of follow-up, respectively.

Clinical variants of Guillain-Barré syndrome in children

Guillain-Barré syndrome is characterized by acute progressive weakness, areflexia, and maximal motor disability that occur within 4 weeks of onset. Various clinical subtypes have been described since the original description of the syndrome. This study aimed to identify characteristics of clinical variants of Guillain-Barré syndrome through retrospective review of cases in Chang Gung Children's Hospital from 2000-2010. Forty-three Guillain-Barré syndrome patients were evaluated based on clinical presentations and an electrodiagnostic study. The most frequent variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome was demyelinating polyneuropathy (67.4%), followed by acute axonal neuropathy (7.0%), Miller Fisher syndrome (7.0%), Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis (7.0%), pharyngo-cervical-brachial variant (4.7%), and polyneuritis cranialis (4.7%). Follow-up revealed that 35 recovered satisfactorily, eight were persistently disabled, and none died during hospitalization. At the earliest stage, differentiating clinical variants from typical Guillain-Barré syndrome was difficult. Children with clinical variants of Guillain-Barré syndrome are more likely to manifest rapid onset from disease onset to nadir, increasing the severity of disability, cranial nerve involvement, urine incontinence, respiratory impairment, and need for ventilator support than in typical Guillain-Barré syndrome.

A fatal case of Churg-Strauss syndrome presenting with acute polyneuropathy mimicking Guillain-Barré syndrome

A 64-year-old woman, with asthma and sinusal polyposis in her history, suddenly developed a painful polyneuropathy with diplopia. Nerve conduction studies, performed at the very onset of the neuropathy, could not definitely rule out a Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and high-dose i.v. immunoglobulins were administered. Clinical and laboratory findings subsequently supported the diagnosis of Churg-Strauss syndrome; corticosteroid therapy was started and clinical stabilisation of neuropathy was apparently achieved. No indicators of unfavourable outcome were present at that time. Nevertheless, 30 days after the onset the patient acutely worsened with severe polyneuropathy relapse and fatal systemic diffusion to heart, kidney and mesenteric district, which a single cyclophosphamide pulse failed to control. This case highlights the possibility that a GBS-like onset of Churg-Strauss syndrome neuropathy should be regarded as a part of multiorgan, severe or even life-threatening vasculitic involvement, requiring the most aggressive treatments, regardless of the presence of recognised factors of poor outcome.

Acute lumbosacral polyradiculoneuropathy heralding transformation to systemic lupus erythematosus in a patient with discoid lupus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystemic autoimmune disease with which a variety of neuropathic disorders have been associated. Among these, the acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy variant of Guillain–Barré syndrome has been well established. However, acute axonal lumbosacral polyradiculoneuropathy accompanied by albuminocytological dissociation in the cerebrospinal fluid has been extremely rarely reported in SLE. We report on a 47-year-old woman with discoid lupus presenting with acute onset of flaccid paraplegia. Extensive investigations suggested the diagnoses of axonal lumbosacral polyradiculoneuropathy and SLE. Treatment with intravenous methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide resulted in clinical recovery. Development of immune-mediated polyneuropathy in a patient with discoid lupus should forewarn the clinician regarding transformation into the systemic form of the disease.

Clinico-electrophysiological findings and prognosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome--10 years' experience

OBJECTIVE

To assess correlation between the prognosis and epidemiological, clinical, laboratory, electrophysiological findings in patients with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS).

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of 104 GBS patients who were hospitalized and followed up at our outpatient clinic during October 1997-November 2007.

RESULTS

Guillain-Barré syndrome patients were followed up with a median period of 232 days. Full recovery or minor deficits were observed in 41% of patients in the first month, 71% in the third month, 86% in the sixth month and 92% in the first year. We found that there was a correlation between Medical Research Council (MRC) sum scores at admission, clinical subtypes, respiratory distress, interference pattern and prognosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Demographic, clinical and electrophysiological findings of our GBS cases were highly similar to those of the previous reports. Two of our cases were presented with preceding tuberculosis infection, which was not reported before in the literature.

Severe outcome of pharyngeal-cervical-brachial pure motor axonal neuropathy

We present two further cases of the pharyngeal-cervical-brachial (PCB) form of GBS, with unfavourable outcome, showing dramatic dissociation between upper and lower body Symptoms.

Both patients showed rapidly progressive motor denervation with disappearance of Compound Muscle Action Potentials (CMAPs) in upper limbs muscles. Sensory Nerve Action Potentials (SNAPs) were instead normal. Normal reflexes, F waves and action potentials were elicited in lower limbs. Despite i.v. Immunoglobulin treatment no recovery was observed and both patients died within a year from onset of symptoms.

[Open rhinophonia in adults: a rare manifestation of cranial polyneuritis]

A 46-year-old male patient reported difficulties in speech and swallowing following gastroenteritis. Marked open nasality (open rhinophonia) and swallowing difficulties with occasional passing of food into the nasopharynx was observed during speaking with the head held in an upright position. The patient was able to articulate clearly with the head reclined or in a lying position. Endoscopy identified complete bilateral soft palate paresis consistent with bilateral glossopharyngeal nerve palsy. Additional symptoms of cranial nerve palsy appeared in the course of the disease. Intravenous corticosteroids were ineffective. A marked improvement of symptoms was achieved after i.v. immunoglobulin therapy that was initiated following identification of serum IgM anti-GM 1 ganglioside antibodies under suspicion of cranial polyneuritis. Nasality was largely resolved under additional speech exercise therapy.

Derivation of high-purity oligodendroglial progenitors

Oligodendrocytes are a type of glial cells that play a critical role in supporting the central nervous system (CNS), in particular insulating axons within the CNS by wrapping them with a myelin sheath, thereby enabling saltatory conduction. They are lost, and myelin damaged - demyelination - in a wide variety of neurological disorders. Replacing depleted cell types within demyelinated areas, however, has been shown experimentally to achieve remyelination and so help restore function. One method to produce oligodendrocytes for cellular replacement therapies is through the use of progenitor or stem cells. The ability to differentiate progenitor or stem cells into high-purity fates not only permits the generation of specific cells for transplantation therapies, but also provides powerful tools for studying cellular mechanisms of development. This chapter outlines methods of generating high-purity OPCs from multipotent neonatal progenitor or human embryonic stem cells.

Peripheral neuropathy and inborn errors of metabolism in adults

Although they are classically viewed as paediatric diseases, it is now recognized that inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) can present at any age from childhood to adulthood. IEMs can involve the peripheral nervous system, mostly as part of a more diffuse neurological or systemic clinical picture. However, in some cases, the neuropathy can be the unique initial sign. Here, based on our personal experience and on a comprehensive literature analysis, we review IEMs causing neuropathies in adults. Diseases were classified according to the predominant type of neuropathies into (1) acute neuropathies, (2) mononeuropathy multiplex, (3) chronic axonal polyneuropathies, (4) chronic demyelinating polyneuropathies, (5) small-fibre neuropathies, and (6) lower motor neuron disease.

Refsum's disease may mimic familial Guillain Barre syndrome

Refsum's disease is a rare autosomal recessive disorder with clinical features including retinitis pigmentosa, anosmia, deafness, chronic sensory-motor neuropathy, ataxia and the accumulation of phytanic acid in blood plasma and body tissues. We report the occurrence of Refsum's disease in two sisters, both presenting with acute demyelinating polyneuropathy mimicking the familial Guillain Barre syndrome. Thus, when GBS is suspected, particularly in cases of familial recurrence as well as in atypical cases of acute polyneuropathy, the diagnosis of Refsum's disease should be considered, looking for other features of the disease and, if appropriate, testing plasma phytanic acid levels.

Intermittent peripheral weakness as the presenting feature of pyruvate dehydrogenase deficiency

Two unrelated children presenting with episodic isolated peripheral weakness were found to have pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) deficiency (OMIM 312170) due to previously undescribed mutations (Pro250Thr, Arg88Cys) in the gene for the E1alpha subunit (PDHA1). Taken in context with the literature, these patients suggest that acute weakness initially resembling Guillain-Barré syndrome is a potentially reversible and probably underdiagnosed manifestation of PDH deficiency and that peripheral nerve function should be evaluated in PDH-deficient patients.

Stem cells for the treatment of myelin loss

Treatment of myelin loss is particularly suited to therapeutic strategies based on cell replacement. Demyelination represents a defined and functionally debilitating deficit, and remyelination can be accomplished by supplying regions of demyelination with myelinogenic cell populations. Clinical interest in stem cells as a source of myelinogenic cells arises from their ability to provide an apparently unlimited cell supply for transplantation, and from recent demonstrations that they can be directed to myelinogenic phenotypes with high purity. Here, I present the emerging perspective that stem-cell-mediated remyelination of the adult CNS is a viable therapeutic strategy, and discuss the challenges to remyelination posed by the environment of acute and chronic injuries.