Diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS)

Miller fisher syndrome with positive anti-GQ1b/GT1a antibodies associated with COVID-19 infection: A case report

BACKGROUND

Miller fisher syndrome (MFS) is a variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome, an acute immune-mediated peripheral neuropathy that is often secondary to viral infections. Anti-ganglioside antibodies play crucial roles in the development of MFS. The positive rate of ganglioside antibodies is exceptionally high in MFS patients, particularly for anti-GQ1b antibodies. However, the presence of other ganglioside antibodies does not exclude MFS.

CASE SUMMARY

We present a 56-year-old female patient who suddenly developed right blepharoptosis and progressively worsening vision in both eyes. There were flu symptoms prior to onset, and a coronavirus disease 2019 test was positive. On physical examination, the patient exhibited bilateral extraocular muscle paralysis, weakened reflexes in both limbs, and impaired coordination. The cerebrospinal fluid examination results showed no obvious abnormalities. Bilateral peroneal nerve F-waves were not extracted. Serum anti-GD1b IgG and anti-GT1a IgG antibodies were positive. The patient received intravenous methylprednisolone (1000 mg/day), with the dosage gradually decreased. Additionally, intravenous high-dose immunoglobulin treatment was administered for 5 days (0.4 g/kg/day) from day 2 to day 6 of hospitalization. The patient’s symptoms improved after treatment with immunoglobulins and hormones.

CONCLUSION

Positive ganglioside antibodies may be used as supporting evidence for the diagnosis; however, the diagnosis of MFS is more reliant on clinical symptoms.

Miller fisher syndrome with positive anti-GQ1b/GT1a antibodies associated with COVID-19 infection: A case report

BACKGROUND

Miller fisher syndrome (MFS) is a variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome, an acute immune-mediated peripheral neuropathy that is often secondary to viral infections. Anti-ganglioside antibodies play crucial roles in the development of MFS. The positive rate of ganglioside antibodies is exceptionally high in MFS patients, particularly for anti-GQ1b antibodies. However, the presence of other ganglioside antibodies does not exclude MFS.

CASE SUMMARY

We present a 56-year-old female patient who suddenly developed right blepharoptosis and progressively worsening vision in both eyes. There were flu symptoms prior to onset, and a coronavirus disease 2019 test was positive. On physical examination, the patient exhibited bilateral extraocular muscle paralysis, weakened reflexes in both limbs, and impaired coordination. The cerebrospinal fluid examination results showed no obvious abnormalities. Bilateral peroneal nerve F-waves were not extracted. Serum anti-GD1b IgG and anti-GT1a IgG antibodies were positive. The patient received intravenous methylprednisolone (1000 mg/day), with the dosage gradually decreased. Additionally, intravenous high-dose immunoglobulin treatment was administered for 5 days (0.4 g/kg/day) from day 2 to day 6 of hospitalization. The patient’s symptoms improved after treatment with immunoglobulins and hormones.

CONCLUSION

Positive ganglioside antibodies may be used as supporting evidence for the diagnosis; however, the diagnosis of MFS is more reliant on clinical symptoms.

Intravenous immunoglobulin and plasma exchange prescribing patterns for Guillain-Barre Syndrome in the United States-2001 to 2018

INTRODUCTION/AIMS

Randomized controlled trials show that repeat intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) dosing and plasma exchange (PLEX) followed by IVIG (combination therapy) have no additional therapeutic benefit in Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) non-responders. Furthermore, the delineation between GBS and Acute Onset CIDP (A-CIDP) can be particularly challenging and carries therapeutic implications. We aimed to evaluate the presence of repeat IVIG, combination therapy, and diagnostic reclassification from GBS to CIDP.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of a large healthcare database for patients with GBS in the US from 2001 to 2018. We identified individuals initially diagnosed with GBS and later re-classified as CIDP. Multivariable logistic regression models were developed to determine associations between patient factors and repeat IVIG dosing, combination therapy, and diagnostic re-classification from GBS to CIDP.

RESULTS

We identified 2325 patients with GBS. A total of 39.7% received repeat IVIG and 6.1% received combination therapy. The proportion of individuals initially diagnosed with GBS and then re-classified as CIDP was 32.0%. Repeat IVIG, combination therapy, and diagnostic reclassification remained stable over time. Female sex (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.65-0.96) and medium-high net worth (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.45-0.90) associated with repeat IVIG therapy, while Asian ethnicity associated with diagnostic re-classification from GBS to CIDP (OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.09-2.86).

DISCUSSION

Repeat IVIG dosing was quite common in GBS before newer trials suggesting harm in non-responders, and IVIG/PLEX combination therapy continues to persist despite strong evidence against use in non-responders. Further, nearly one in three patients initially diagnosed with GBS is subsequently diagnosed with CIDP, but the reasons are unclear.

A study on the role of serum uric acid in differentiating acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy from acute-onset chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Clinical symptoms and laboratory indices for acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP), a variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome, and acute-onset chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (A-CIDP) were analyzed to identify factors that could contribute to early differential diagnosis.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed on 44 AIDP and 44 A-CIDP patients looking for any demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations or laboratory parameters that might differentiate AIDP from acutely presenting CIDP.

RESULTS

In Guillain-Barré syndrome patients (N = 63), 69.84% (N = 44) were classified as having AIDP, 19.05% (N = 12) were found to have acute motor axonal neuropathy, 6.35% (N = 4) were found to have acute motor and sensory axonal neuropathy, and 4.76% (N = 3) were found to have Miller Fisher syndrome. Serum uric acid (UA) was higher in A-CIDP patients (329.55 ± 72.23 μmol/L) than in AIDP patients (221.08 ± 71.32 μmol/L) (p = 0.000). Receiver operating characteristic analyses indicated that the optimal UA cutoff was 283.50 μmol/L. Above this level, patients were more likely to present A-CIDP than AIDP (specificity 81.80%, sensitivity 81.80%). During the follow-up process, serum samples were effectively collected from 19 AIDP patients during the rehabilitation phase and 28 A-CIDP patients during the remission stage, and it was found that UA levels were significantly increased in A-CIDP (remission) (298.9 ± 90.39 μmol/L) compared with AIDP (rehabilitation) (220.1 ± 108.2 μmol/L, p = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that serum UA level can help to differentiate AIDP from A-CIDP with high specificity and sensitivity, which is helpful for early diagnosis and guidance of treatment.

Clinical study of camrelizumab combined with docetaxel and carboplatin as a neoadjuvant treatment for locally advanced oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Herein, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of camrelizumab combined with docetaxel and carboplatin as a neoadjuvant treatment for locally advanced oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Fifty-one patients with OSCC, treated from July 2020 to October 2022, were analyzed. Of them, 41 patients underwent surgery 4-8 weeks after undergoing two cycles of camrelizumab (200 mg IV Q3W) combined with docetaxel (75 mg/m2 IV Q3W) and carboplatin (area under the curve = 5-6 IV Q3W). The primary endpoint was the pathological complete response rate. All 51 patients (100%) experienced treatment-related grades 1-2 adverse events, and 2 patients (3.9%) experienced grade 4 events (including elevated alanine transaminase/aspartate transferase levels and Guillain-Barre syndrome). Fifty patients were evaluated for the treatment efficacy. Of them, 13 achieved complete response, and the objective response rate was 74%. Only 41 patients underwent surgical treatment. The pathological complete response rate was 17.1%, the major pathological response rate was 63.4%, and the R0 resection rate was 100%. Approximately 22% of the patients had tumor regression grades 0. Eight patients (19.5%) developed surgery-related complications. The median follow-up time was 18 months (range: 3-29 months). Four patients experienced disease progression, while four died. The median disease-free survival and overall survival were not reached. Camrelizumab combined with docetaxel and carboplatin is an effective and safe neoadjuvant treatment for locally advanced OSCC. This regimen may afford a potential strategy to treat patients with locally advanced OSCC.

Effect of the Task Approach, Airway Clearance, Kinesthetic Exercise (TASKS) Paediatric Rehabilitation Protocol on Miller-Fisher Syndrome Variant of Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A Case Report

Miller-Fisher syndrome (MFS) is a rare variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) with varying incidence rates geographically. MFS is primarily diagnosed based on clinical features, such as ataxia and areflexia, although other neurological symptoms may also present. A case of MFS has been presented, characterized by complaints of ataxia, areflexia, bilateral foot and hand pain and difficulty in swallowing. In this regard, a paediatric rehabilitation approach has been adopted, utilizing outcome measures, such as the Erasmus Guillain-Barre Syndrome Respiratory Insufficiency Score-Kids, WeeFIM and paediatric balance scale, in addition to clinical evaluation. It is worth noting that the presented case demonstrates the importance of accurately diagnosing and treating this rare neurological condition MFS. Through the implementation of appropriate rehabilitation strategies, it is possible to enhance patients' quality of life.

Construction and evaluation of a prognostic prediction model based on the mEGOS score for patients with Guillain-Barré syndrome

Background

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an immune-mediated acute peripheral neuropathy in which up to 20% patients remain unable to walk independently after 6 months of onset. This study aimed to develop a clinical prognostic model based on the modified Erasmus GBS Outcome Score (mEGOS) for predicting the prognosis of GBS patients at 6 months of onset.

Methods

The clinical data of 201 GBS patients were retrospectively analyzed. According to the GBS disability score (GBS-DS) at 6 months of onset, patients were divided into a good prognosis group (GBS-DS <3 points) and a poor prognosis group (GBS-DS≥3 points). Univariate and multivariate analysis was used to screen out independent risk factors for poor prognosis, and a prediction model was accordingly constructed for GBS prognosis.

Results

The mEGOS score, serum albumin (ALB) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) were independent risk factors for poor prognosis in patients with GBS, and the above risk factors were used to construct a prognostic model of mEGOS-I and a nomogram. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed that the area under curve (AUC) of mEGOS-I at admission and at 7 days of admission to predict poor prognosis at 6 months of GBS onset was 0.891 and 0.916, respectively, with sensitivities of 82.7% and 82.6% and specificities of 86.5% and 86.6%, respectively. Decision curve analysis showed that the nomogram had a very high clinical benefit.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first report of the construction of a prognostic prediction model based on the mEGOS score, ALB, and FPG that can accurately and stably predict the prognosis of GBS patients at 6 months of onset.

Acute Necrotizing Myelitis Associated with COVID-19

Acute ascending hemorrhagic longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis is a rare inflammatory demyelinating disorder, which invades several vertebral segments and progresses rapidly and manifests severe symptoms. We present a case of acute necrotizing myelitis associated with COVID-19 infection. A 10-year-old female, with no previous medical history and no prior administration of COVID-19 vaccination, contracted COVID-19 in early April 2022. Two weeks later, she suffered from severe posterior neck pain and also presented with motor weakness and numbness in both lower extremities, making it difficult to walk independently and spontaneously void urine. Initial spinal cord MR showed longitudinally segmental extensive T2 hyperintensities. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis revealed elevated red blood cell, normal white blood cell, and elevated protein levels and absence of oligoclonal bands. CSF culture and viral polymerase chain reaction were negative. Autoimmune work-up was negative. She was started on intravenous methylprednisolone 1g/day for 5 days and immunoglobulin (Ig) 2 g/kg for 5 days. She was also treated with six courses of therapeutic plasma exchange. Nevertheless, her pain and motor weakness persisted. She eventually developed respiratory failure. Follow-up MR presented a newly noted small hemorrhagic component. She was consequently treated with two additional courses of methylprednisolone and Ig. At 6-months follow-up, neurological examination showed improvement with normal sensory function and motor grade IV function in both upper extremities. We present the case of acute necrotizing myelitis associated with COVID-19 infection. Multiple courses of methylprednisolone and Ig showed mild improvement in motor and sensory function. However, poor prognosis was unavoidable due to rapid progression of the disease.

A Rare Association Between Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and Miller-Fisher Syndrome

The etiopathogenesis for Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and Miller-Fisher syndrome (MFS), a variant of GBS, is well-documented in the literature. However, the association between MFS and an underlying herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection is very limited. We present a unique case of a 48-year-old man who developed diplopia, bilateral ptosis, and gait instability following an acute diarrheal illness and recurring cold sores. The patient was diagnosed with MFS precipitated by recurrent HSV-1 infection following a Campylobacter jejuni acute infection. The diagnosis of MFS was supported by a positive anti-GQ1b ganglioside immunoglobulin (Ig)G and abnormal MRI-enhancing lesions of the bilateral cranial nerves III and VI. Intravenous immunoglobulin and acyclovir produced a significant clinical response in the patient within the first 72 hours. Our case highlights the rare association between two pathogens and MFS and the importance of recognizing risk factors, symptomatology, and appropriate workup accompanying an atypical MFS case.

Peripheral Neuropathy Secondary to Ertapenem Administration for Treatment of Infectious Endocarditis

Ertapenem is a widely used broad-spectrum carbapenem antibiotic active against most species of gram-negative and gram-positive aerobes and anaerobes with specific targeting of the Amp C extended-spectrum beta-lactamases. It is advantageous for its once-daily dosing via IM or IV administration and minimal side effect profile for the treatment of community-acquired infections. We report an 80-year-old man presenting with reversible peripheral neuropathy following the administration and subsequent discontinuation of ertapenem for the treatment of acute infectious endocarditis. It is especially notable that our patient had less severe (i.e., stage 3) chronic kidney disease as opposed to current literature which only presents similar findings with more advanced kidney disease (stage 4-5). Upon cessation of ertapenem administration, our patient recovered to his baseline motor and sensory status over a period of four days. We believe there to be value in reporting this case, as well as value in reevaluating the current recommendations for ertapenem dosing in those with kidney compromise.

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 associated with COVID-19: A systematic review

With the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the whole world was impacted by a pandemic. With the passage of time and knowledge about the dynamics and viral propagation of this disease, the short-, medium- and long-term repercussions are still being discovered. During this period, it has been learned that various manifestations of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can affect the nervous system. In recent months, a variety of studies and case reports have proposed an association between COVID-19 and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). The present work aims to systematically review the publications available to date to verify the relationship between these two pathologies and the characteristics of post-COVID GBS. There were 156 studies included in this work, resulting in a total of 436 patients. The findings show a mean age of the patients of 61,38 years and a male majority. The GBS symptoms began on average 19 days after the onset of COVID-19 infection. Regarding GBS, the main manifestations found included generalized weakness, reflex reduction, facial paresis/paralysis and hypoesthesia. As expected, the most common result in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis was albuminocytological dissociation. A pattern of blood analysis findings common to all patients was not observed due to non-standardization of case reports. Regarding electrodiagnostic studies, acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP) appeared as the most common subtype of GBS in this study. There have been reports, to a lesser extent, of acute motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN), acute sensorimotor axonal neuropathy (AMSAN), the pharyngeal-cervical-brachial variant (PCB), and Miller-Fisher syndrome (MFS). The GBS treatment used was mainly intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and plasma exchange (PLEX). Therefore, the present study reports a high prevalence of hospitalization and intensive care units ICU admissions, conjecturing a relationship between the development of GBS and the severity of COVID-19. Despite the severity, most patients showed improvement in GBS symptoms after treatment, and their residual symptoms did not include motor involvement. Therefore, the development of GBS seems to be related to COVID-19 infection, as reported by the present systematic review.

Estimating Zika virus attack rates and risk of Zika virus-associated neurological complications in Colombian capital cities with a Bayesian model

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a mosquito-borne pathogen that caused a major epidemic in the Americas in 2015-2017. Although the majority of ZIKV infections are asymptomatic, the virus has been associated with congenital birth defects and neurological complications (NC) in adults. We combined multiple data sources to improve estimates of ZIKV infection attack rates (IARs), reporting rates of Zika virus disease (ZVD) and the risk of ZIKV-associated NC for 28 capital cities in Colombia. ZVD surveillance data were combined with post-epidemic seroprevalence data and a dataset on ZIKV-associated NC in a Bayesian hierarchical model. We found substantial heterogeneity in ZIKV IARs across cities. The overall estimated ZIKV IAR across the 28 cities was 0.38 (95% CrI: 0.17-0.92). The estimated ZVD reporting rate was 0.013 (95% CrI: 0.004-0.024), and 0.51 (95% CrI: 0.17-0.92) cases of ZIKV-associated NC were estimated to be reported per 10 000 ZIKV infections. When we assumed the same ZIKV IAR across sex or age group, we found important spatial heterogeneities in ZVD reporting rates and the risk of being reported as a ZVD case with NC. Our results highlight how additional data sources can be used to overcome biases in surveillance data and estimate key epidemiological parameters.

Guillain-Barré-Like Syndrome From Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Guillain-Barré-like syndrome (GBS) has been noted in solid tumors such as hepatocellular carcinoma, gastric, breast, and colon cancer and is characterized by an ascending weakness generally with mild paresthesias; however, it has not been noted in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. A 64-year-old woman with moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma of the upper esophagus receiving 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin chemotherapy concurrently with radiation therapy presented for two weeks of progressive lower extremity weakness and numbness. She experienced acute worsening of symptoms after her cisplatin infusion. She underwent a lumbar puncture that revealed findings consistent with GBS and she began treatment with intravenous immunoglobin. She had gradual improvement in her weakness and paresthesias and was discharged to an inpatient rehabilitation facility. This case documents the first noted association between GBS and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

Old age and multiple comorbidity are associated with delayed diagnosis of Guillain-Barre syndrome

To assess whether older age and presence of comorbidities were associated with a delayed diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). The medical records of 140 patients diagnosed with GBS at Severance Hospital from March 2011 to December 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Comorbidity profiles were assessed using the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI). The age-adjusted CCI (ACCI) score was calculated, which further incorporated the effect of age. Patients were classified into the early diagnosis group (diagnosis duration ≤ 14 days) and late diagnosis group (diagnosis duration > 14 days). Clinical features and comorbidity profiles were compared between the two groups. The cumulative incidence of diagnosis was compared between the low and high ACCI groups. Age was significantly higher in the late diagnosis group (61.8 ± 15.0 years) than in the early diagnosis group (49.1 ± 18.4, p = 0.001). The CCI score was higher in the late diagnosis group (≥ 3 in 26.1%) than in the early diagnosis group (≥ 3 in 5.1%, p = 0.01). The ACCI score demonstrated a positive correlation with the diagnosis duration (β = 1.636, p < 0.001), indicating that the diagnosis was delayed in patients with a higher ACCI score. The duration from onset to diagnosis was longer in the high ACCI group than in the low ACCI group (log-rank test, p < 0.001). The diagnosis duration was significantly longer, especially in patients with malignancy and cardiovascular diseases. Delayed diagnosis of GBS is associated with older age and multiple comorbidities. Diagnostic delay was significant in patients with malignancies and cardiovascular diseases. Early suspicion of GBS is required in these patients.

Supervised, individualised exercise reduces fatigue and improves strength and quality of life more than unsupervised home exercise in people with chronic Guillain-Barré syndrome: a randomised trial

QUESTION

In people in the chronic phase of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), how much more does a supervised, individualised exercise program improve functional independence with activities of daily living than a home-based exercise program? How do the two exercise programs compare regarding their effects on muscle strength, fatigue, pain and quality of life?

DESIGN

Randomised controlled trial with concealed allocation, intention-to-treat analysis and blinding of outcome assessors.

PARTICIPANTS

Sixteen adults with stable residual disability ≥ 6 months after the onset of GBS.

INTERVENTION

Participants in the experimental group were allocated to 60-minute sessions of physiotherapist-supervised strengthening, endurance and breathing exercises, gait training and pain management, two to three sessions/week for 12 weeks. The control group was prescribed a home program of 30-minute sessions of maintenance exercises and education in self-management, two to three sessions/week for 12 weeks.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Functional independence in activities of daily living on the 100-point Barthel Index (primary outcome), muscle strength on the 60-point Medical Research Council scale, fatigue on the 0-to-63 Fatigue Severity Scale, a visual analogue scale of pain severity, and quality of life, measured at baseline and months 6 and 12.

RESULTS

At month 6, the median between-group difference was 5 (95% CI 0 to 20) for functional independence, 8 (95% CI 4 to 18) for strength, -13 (95% CI -28 to -1) for fatigue, and 12 (95% CI 3 to 13) for the environment domain of quality of life. Estimated effects at month 12 had a similar magnitude, but most of the CIs had greater uncertainty.

CONCLUSION

Supervised, individualised exercise reduced fatigue and improved strength and quality of life more than unsupervised home exercise in people with chronic Guillain-Barré syndrome.

REGISTRATION

CTRI/2016/08/007150.

Severe bradycardia in a teenager as the initial manifestation for Guillain Barré syndrome: a case report

BACKGROUND

Guillain-Barré syndrome is the most common cause of flaccid paralysis, with multiple known clinical variants. Autonomic dysfunction, although frequently reported in the clinical course, is often overlooked in the pediatric population and is usually not the initial presenting symptom in this age group CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a previously healthy 17-year-old who arrived at the Emergency Department complaining of gastrointestinal symptoms associated with lipothymia. An initial electrocardiogram (ECG) showed sustained sinus bradycardia subsequently associated with arterial hypertension. Structural and inflammatory cardiac pathology were ruled out, as well as auriculoventricular conduction block and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. On the ninth day after initial symptoms, the patient presented sensory and motor nerve disturbances with the cerebrospinal fluid analysis showing a clear albumin-cytologic dissociation, consistent with an atypical presentation of GBS with autonomic dysfunction. Immunoglobulin therapy was administered, developing subsequent aseptic meningitis, that required discontinuation of previous therapy and treatment with plasmapheresis. Clinical improvement was achieved with full motor function recovery.

CONCLUSION

This case illustrates a Guillain-Barré syndrome variant in which autonomic dysfunction preceded neurologic deficit, a finding uncommon in children, emphasizing this as an important differential diagnosis for severe bradycardia in pediatric patients.

Therapeutic plasma exchange in a patient with acute motor axonal neuropathy subtype of Guillain-Barre syndrome and systemic lupus erythematosus

A young female in her early 20s with a history of systemic lupus erythematosus presented to the emergency department due to 4 days of progressive bilateral extremity weakness and numbness. The patient reported flu-like symptoms that had spontaneously recovered 2 weeks prior to her presentation. She was 10 weeks pregnant at presentation. Lumbar puncture study and electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) were consistent with acute motor axonal neuropathy subtype of Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS). Patient also had increased proteinuria and renal biopsy performed that was consistent with lupus nephritis. Despite treatment with pulse dose corticosteroids and IVIG, the patient had minimal neurological improvement and with continued decline required intubation. Her pregnancy was terminated at this point and a course of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) was started. Patient was also treated with cyclophosphamide. The patient responded to the combination of therapy and had slow but gradual neurologic recovery as well as improvement of proteinuria. Here we describe a case of an acute motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN) subtype of GBS in a young woman with active SLE and current pregnancy at the time of the presentation. Concurrent GBS and active SLE in the setting of pregnancy may be more treatment resistant, and combination therapy including TPE, immunosuppression, and termination of pregnancy may be indicated.

Acute-onset chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy complicating SARS-CoV-2 infection and Ad26.COV2.S vaccination: report of two cases

Background

The spectrum of reported neurological sequelae associated with SARS-CoV-2 is continuously expanding, immune mediated neuropathies like Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) and exacerbations of preexisting chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) being among them. However, respective cases of acute onset CIDP (A-CIDP) are rare.

Case presentation

We hereby report two cases of A-CIDP after COVID-19 infection and Ad26.COV2.S vaccination that presented with flaccid paraparesis and acroparesthesias (Case presentation 1; female, 52) and facial diplegia accompanied by acroparesthesias (Case presentation 2; male, 62), respectively. In both instances clinical, neurophysiological and CSF findings were indicative of acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, thus both patients were initially treated with intravenous immunoglobulins resulting in clinical improvement. Nevertheless, the first patient relapsed 5 weeks after the initial episode, thus was diagnosed with GBS with treatment related fluctuations (GBS-TRF) and treated successfully with seven plasma exchange (PLEX) sessions. However, 11 weeks from symptom onset she relapsed again. Taking into account that the second relapse occurred more than 8 weeks after the first episode, the potential diagnosis of A-CIDP was reached and oral dexamethasone 40 mg/d for 4 consecutive days every 4 weeks was administered. With regards to the second patient, he relapsed > 8 weeks after the initial episode, thus was also diagnosed with A-CIDP and treated with 7 PLEX sessions followed by similar to the aforementioned corticosteroid therapy. On 2 month follow-up both patients exhibited remarkable clinical improvement.

Conclusions

Close surveillance of patients presenting with immune neuropathies in the context of SARS-CoV-2 infection or immunization is crucial for timely implementation of appropriate treatment. Prompt A-CIDP distinction from GBS-TRF is of paramount importance as treatment approach and prognosis between these two entities differ.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s41983-022-00515-4.

Mortality and disability reported after immunoglobulins or plasmapheresis treatment of Guillain-Barré syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To compare the clinical results (28-day mortality and disability at discharge) in patients with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) treated with immunoglobulin or plasmapheresis at the Regional Lambayeque in Peru Hospital.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective Cohort Study. Brighton criteria was used for diagnosing GBS, and modified Rankin scale (MRS) was employed for evaluating functional outcome. We used logistic regression for data analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 142 cases of GBS diagnosed from 2011 to 2020 were included. GBS presented in a seasonal pattern; 60% of cases occurred in winter and spring. Motor variants (AMAN and AMSAN) accounted for 60% of cases, whereas only 8.5% of cases were typical GBS (AIDP). About 60% of patients were males, and 56% of cases corresponded to the age range of 20-59 years. Patients aged ≥60 years accounted for only 24% of total cases of GBS, but this group had a lethality of 58.3%. Although 28-day mortality was statistically similar in both treatment groups (plasmapheresis or immunoglobulin), we found a trend toward lower mortality in the plasmapheresis group (OR 0.78; 95% CI 0.62-0.97; p=0.062). We found no differences in terms of disability at discharge in GBS patients treated with plasmapheresis or immunoglobulin.

CONCLUSION

Mortality and functional outcome were statistically similar between patients treated with immunoglobulin or plasmatic exchange. However, there was a trend toward lower mortality in patients treated with plasmapheresis.

AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine and Guillain- Barré Syndrome in Tasmania: A causal link?

The emergence of the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has presented an unprecedented global challenge. Vaccines against COVID have been developed to date. Covid-19 has been linked with the development of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), a rare immune-mediated demyelinating neuropathy. We report three cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome and one case of Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP), presenting to a Tasmanian hospital, and review 15 other reported cases and discuss likely immunopathology. Nearly all reported cases of post-COVID-19 vacciation inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy are linked to AstraZeneca vaccination and a variant with bifacial weakness is the most reported form of GBS globally.

Characteristics of Guillain-Barre Syndrome Patient Underwent Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at Lakesla 2016–2019

BACKGROUND: Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is considered an acute immune-mediated monophasic illness. Standard therapy includes intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and/or plasmapheresis. Yet, long-standing disability remains a problem. In Indonesia, the availability and cost of these therapies are constraints. AIM: To show the capability of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) therapy in GBS patients who did not undergo standard therapy. HBO2 also provides healing in patients who experience delays in therapy. METHODS: Data included identity, demographic, social history, current disease history, disease progression and therapies used. Data were displayed in the form of tables and graphs. RESULTS: Twenty-five GBS patients underwent HBO2 from 2016 to 2019. The majority of patients were males aged 20-30 years, triggered by preceding diarrhea. After approximately three to ten days following HBO2, they felt their first positive changes. They walked with assistance after two to three weeks receiving HBO2 and without assistance after four to 12 weeks receiving HBO2. CONCLUSION: HBO2 administration show clinical improvement in GBS patients. HBO2 is expected to become an adjuctive therapy for GBS patients in Indonesia.

Ten years evaluation of epidemiology- and mortality-related factors in adults and children with Guillain-Barré syndrome in the north of Iran

Background

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is the main cause of acute and subacute flaccid paralysis in western nations since the eradication of poliomyelitis.

Objective

The aim of this study is to investigate epidemiology and mortality characteristics of GBS in the north of Iran.

Material and methods

In this study, the hospital information system (HIS) was used to access each patient’s information. The final 174 cases were examined in terms of age, sex, place of residence, the year of referral, the month of referral, the season of referral, client city, accompanying background disease, and the type of GBS.

Results

The mean incidence rate in Guilan province was about 0.69 in 100,000 persons, and the case fatality rate was 10.34%. The most reported type of GBS was AIDP (33.90%), and the most common symptom was upper and lower limbs paresis in 65 cases (37%). Respiratory distress (P =  < 0.001), complications during hospitalization (P = 0.0001), and ICU requirement (P = 0.001) were significantly higher in dead patients.

Conclusion

In this study, the incidence of GBS was higher in men than women and the highest number of cases was in the age group of 60 to 75 years. The significant point was the high-case fatality rate in Guilan province compared to the previous studies. The complications during hospitalization such as respiratory distress, ICU requirement, and underlying disease had a significant relation with the fatality of GBS.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10072-021-05562-y.

Non-traumatic spinal cord infarction of the conus medullaris in a child: a case report

INTRODUCTION

The etiologies of pediatric spinal cord infarction are commonly cardiovascular problems resulting from hypotensive events from trauma and abdominal aortic surgery. Non-traumatic spinal cord infarction in children is rare and remains difficult to diagnose. We report a case of non-traumatic spinal cord infarction of the conus medullaris in a child who recovered after receiving only rehabilitative treatment.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 12-year-old female patient experienced sudden low back pain for 2 days, followed by weakness in the lower extremities and difficulties in micturition. On admission, magnetic resonance imaging indicated spinal cord infarction of the conus medullaris. After initial treatment with prednisone and mannitol, a few weeks of intensive rehabilitation was recommended. Physical therapy focused on improving lower limb strength. A plastic solid ankle-foot orthosis was used with Lofstrand crutches throughout the period of rehabilitation. After 2 months of rigorous therapy, she was able to walk independently.

DISCUSSION

Non-traumatic spinal cord infarction of the conus medullaris in children is extremely rare. The current case is unique because it involves a patient who presented with pediatric spinal cord infarction of the conus medullaris and showed remarkable neurological recovery after rehabilitation. The case describes a rare spinal cord infarction in a pediatric patient and emphasizes the importance of providing an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Descriptive analysis of surveillance data for Zika virus disease and Zika virus-associated neurological complications in Colombia, 2015-2017

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a mosquito-borne pathogen that recently caused a major epidemic in the Americas. Although the majority of ZIKV infections are asymptomatic, the virus has been associated with birth defects in fetuses and newborns of infected mothers as well as neurological complications in adults. We performed a descriptive analysis on approximately 106,000 suspected and laboratory-confirmed cases of Zika virus disease (ZVD) that were reported during the 2015-2017 epidemic in Colombia. We also analyzed a dataset containing patients with neurological complications and recent febrile illness compatible with ZVD. Females had higher cumulative incidence of ZVD than males. Compared to the general population, cases were more likely to be reported in young adults (20 to 39 years of age). We estimated the cumulative incidence of ZVD in pregnant females at 3,120 reported cases per 100,000 population (95% CI: 3,077-3,164), which was considerably higher than the incidence in both males and non-pregnant females. ZVD cases were reported in all 32 departments. Four-hundred and eighteen patients suffered from ZIKV-associated neurological complications, of which 85% were diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome. The median age of ZIKV cases with neurological complications was 12 years older than that of ZVD cases. ZIKV-associated neurological complications increased with age, and the highest incidence was reported among individuals aged 75 and older. Even though neurological complications and deaths due to ZIKV were rare in this epidemic, better risk communication is needed for people living in or traveling to ZIKV-affected areas.

Electrophysiological characteristics of patients with nitrous oxide abuse

Objective: In the young generations with nitrous oxide abuse (N₂O), featured electrophysiological response of the peripheral neuropathy caused by nitrous oxide remains to be defined.Methods: Patients with nitrous oxide abuse (20 cases), two variants of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), that is, acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (GBS-AIDP, 19 cases) and acute motor axonal neuropathy (GBS-AMAN, 18 cases), as well as diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN, 20 cases) were enrolled into this study. Electrophysiological parameters including distal motor latency (DML), motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV), sensory nerve conduction velocity (SNCV), amplitudes of compound muscle action potential (CMAP), and sensory nerve action potential (SNAP) were measured and analyzed by comparing the parameters between the aforementioned patients groups as well as normal control group (20 subjects).Results: Compared to normal control subjects, patients with nitrous oxide abuse showed prolonged DML, slower MNCV and SNCV in the limbs, lower amplitudes of CMAP in the median, tibial and peroneal nerves, and lower SNAP in median and ulnar nerves. Abnormalities of MNCV and amplitudes of CMAP in the lower limbs were significantly higher than that in the upper limbs . Abnormal electrophysiological features of patients with nitrous oxide abuse were dramatically different from those in GBS-AIDP or DPN patients, but similar to those in GBS-AMAN patients.Conclusions: Nitrous oxide abuse could cause abnormal electrophysiological response in the limbs. Some of the parameters (DML, MNCV, SNCV, CMAP and SNAP) appeared significantly different between the patients with nitrous oxide abuse, GBS with AIDP or AMAN, and DPN patients.Significance: Electrophysiological examination could be considered as an important supporting factor in differential diagnosis for nitrous oxide abuse, GBS with AIDP or AMAN, and DPN.

Association of Guillain-Barre syndrome with COVID-19 infection: An updated systematic review

OBJECTIVE

The systematic review aimed to determine demographic characteristics, clinical features, lab evaluation, management and complications of the studies focusing on Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) as a sequele of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) infection.

METHODS

After protocol registration, PubMed, Web of Science and Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature (CINHAL) databases were searched for relevant articles using MeSH key-words and imported into referencing/review softwares. The data, regarding demographic and clinical characteristics, diagnostic workup and management, was analyzed in International Business Machines (IBM) Statistics SPSS 21. Many statistical tests, such as t-test and the Mann-Whitney U test, were used. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

We identified 64 relevant articles. The mean age of the patients was 56 ± 16 years; the majority were males (64.9%). Among the neurological findings, paresthesia was the most typical symptom (48.9%). Most of the patients had been diagnosed by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) (69.2%). Two-third of the patients received immunoglobulins (IVIg) (77.7%). Although functions recovered in most patients, there were four patients with facial diplegia during follow-up (4.26%). Acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP) was more likely to be associated with paresis of the lower extremity (p < 0.05) and higher levels of glucose on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis (p < 0.05). These patients were more likely to receive IVIg (p < 0.05) and develop respiratory insufficiency, subsequently (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

GBS is being recognized as one of the many presentations of the COVID-19 infection. Although the common form is AIDP that might lead to complications, other variants are possible as well, and more studies are needed to focus on those subvariants.

Peripheral neuropathic pain

Neuropathic pain (NP) can have either central nervous system causes or ones from the peripheral nervous system. This article will focus on the epidemiology, classifications, pathology, non-invasive treatments and invasive treatments as a general review of NP involving the peripheral nervous system. NP has characteristic symptomatology such as burning and electrical sensations. It occurs in up to 10% of the general population. Its frequency can be attributed to its occurrence in neck and back pain, diabetes and patients receiving chemotherapy. There are a wide range of pharmacologic options to control this type of pain and when such measures fail, numerous interventional methods can be employed such as nerve blocks and implanted stimulators. NP has a cost to the patient and society in terms of emotional consequences, quality of life, lost wages and the cost of assistance from the medical system and thus deserves serious consideration for prevention, treatment and control.

Cerebrospinal Fluid Protein Level and Mechanical Ventilation in Guillain-Barré Syndrome patients

The prognostic value of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein in Guillain Barré Syndrome (GBS) is unclear. We aimed to explore the potential association between CSF protein level and mechanical ventilation in GBS. We undertook a retrospective study of GBS patients from January 2000 to November 2019 at the University of Michigan. 94 patients were ultimately included for evaluation. After adjusting for the Erasmus GBS Respiratory Insufficiency Scale (EGRIS), we did not find a significant difference in CSF protein between ventilated and non-ventilated patients. Elevated CSF protein level does not appear to portend an increased likelihood of mechanical ventilation in GBS patients.

Serum IgG anti-GD1a antibody and mEGOS predict outcome in Guillain-Barré syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Approximately 15%-20% of patients with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) are unable to walk independently at 6 months from the onset of neurological symptom. The modified Erasmus GBS outcome score (mEGOS) has been reported as a prognostic tool.Herein we investigated the association between a poor outcome, inability to walk independently at 6 months and presence of antiganglioside antibodies.

METHODS

The clinical and serological data of 177 patients with GBS were retrospectively collected in Japan to assess the associations between a poor outcome and serum IgG antibodies against each ganglioside (GM1, GD1a, GalNAc-GD1a, GQ1b and GT1a). In addition, we investigated whether the combination of mEGOS and serum IgG antibodies against gangliosides is useful in predicting a poor outcome.

RESULTS

The patients with IgG anti-GD1a antibodies more frequently showed poor outcomes than those without these antibodies (9 (36%) of 25 vs 8 (6%) of 127 patients, p<0.001). Particularly, 80% showed a poor outcome when they had both serum IgG anti-GD1a antibody and a high mEGOS of ≥10 on day 7 of admission.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of serum IgG anti-GD1a antibodies and a high mEGOS could help in making a more accurate prognosis of patients than mEGOS alone, especially for predicting poor outcomes.

COVID-19-related and not related Guillain-Barré syndromes share the same management pitfalls during lock down: The experience of Liguria region in Italy

Recently, during the pandemic infection of the novel SARS-CoV-2, some cases of Guillan-Barré Syndrome (GBS) have been reported. The aim of this work is to report the natural history of patients with GBS, both COVID and not-COVID related, hospitalized in Liguria region, during lock down period, in order to assess clinical features of both groups and possible managements pitfalls due to pandemic emergency. Fifteen GBS patients were admitted to the Hospitals of Liguria, from February 15th to May 3rd 2020, six with SARS-CoV-2 infection and nine without infection. In COVID-19 related GBS five patients presented with classical GBS and one with variant. Two patients presented neurologic symptoms during or shortly after the viral syndrome, suggesting the pattern of a para-infectious profile. Multi-organ involvement, delay in the diagnosis, incomplete work up and start of therapy, were registered in 50% of cases with a GBS-Disability scale ≥4 at follow-up evaluation. In not-COVID-19 related GBS, main problem was diagnostic delay. In three patients the first neurological observation took place after a mean of 33,6 days. Moreover, five patients went to emergency room after an average of 30 days since the onset of neurological symptoms because of fear of contagion. In conclusion, not only SARS-CoV-2 infection can cause GBS, but it can also, due to effects of pandemic on the health organization, affect the outcome of patients with not COVID-19 related GBS.

A Rare Case with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Manifested by two Different Neurologic Entities; Guillain Barre Syndrome and Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an immune-mediated, lifelong disease characterized by quite heterogeneous neuropsychiatric manifestations. Herewith, we report the first rare co-incidental case with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES), Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS), and (SLE). The coexistence of these neurological conditions in SLE patients could lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment due to this rare coalescence and clinical diversity. Currently, there are no specific, diagnostic radiological or laboratory biomarkers for neurological involvement in SLE. Awareness and, early recognition of neuropsychiatric involvements of the disease are important for timely appropriate treatment. Delayed treatment may cause permanent damage, poor prognosis, long term morbidity, and even death.

Guillain-Barré syndrome associated with Zika virus infection in Brazil: a cost-of-illness study

BACKGROUND

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a serious, acute paralytic neuropathy of autoimmune aetiology, usually associated with a previous infection. The current study aims to estimate the costs of GBS associated with Zika virus (ZIKV) infection in Brazil.

METHODS

A cost-of-illness study was conducted from the perspective of the Brazilian public health system (Sistema Único de Saúde [SUS]) and Brazilian society for the year 2016. Direct and indirect costs were estimated by a mixed macrocosting and microcosting approach.

RESULTS

The total cost of ZIKV-associated GBS in Brazil was US$11 997 225.85, consisting of the costs of symptomatic ZIKV infection before onset of GBS (direct costs US$2011.51, indirect costs US$19 780.53) and the costs that followed development of GBS (direct costs US$4 722 980.89, indirect costs US$7 252 452.92). The cost of treatment with human immunoglobulin (US$3 263 210.50) and the cost of productivity losses associated with potential years of working life lost due to early mortality (US$4 398 551.72) were particularly noteworthy.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that ZIKV-associated GBS is costly to Brazil, especially due to productivity losses and hospitalization. This highlights the importance of investing in the prevention of ZIKV infection and in the care of patients with GBS.

High-Risk Chief Complaints III: Neurologic Emergencies

A careful history and thorough physical examination are necessary in patients presenting with acute neurologic dysfunction. Patients presenting with headache should be screened for red-flag criteria that suggest a dangerous secondary cause warranting imaging and further diagnostic workup. Dizziness is a vague complaint; focusing on timing, triggers, and examination findings can help reduce diagnostic error. Most patients presenting with back pain do not require emergent imaging, but those with new neurologic deficits or signs/symptoms concerning for acute infection or cord compression warrant MRI. Delay to diagnosis and treatment of acute ischemic stroke is a frequent reason for medical malpractice claims.

Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine for Acute Guillain-barré Syndrome Treatment

Introduction

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a worldwide demyelinating polyradiculopathy and polyneuropathy. Currently, there is no specific drug for GBS, and established treatment is generally based on immune-modulating treatment with plasma exchange or intravenous immunoglobulin in combination with supportive care. This study aimed to investigate the efficiency of integrated Chinese and Western medicine for acute GBS treatment.

Methods

We enrolled 73 subjects, and randomly divided them into two groups: 35 cases in the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) group, and 28 in the Control group. The Control group was treated with the common Western medicine for one month; and the TCM group was administrated with one month of common treatment combined with TCM medication.

Results

Compared to the controls, TCM significantly enhanced the treatment efficiency in symptom expression, including the TCM syndrome score, the activity of daily living score, Hughes functional score and sensory dysfunction assessment. The total effective rate of the TCM group was 94.29%, significantly better than controls (78.59%). Moreover, TCM provide better improvement in motor nerve conduction functions (distal motor latency and motor conduction velocity) and sensory nerve conduction functions (sensory conduction velocity and sensory nerve action potential) in median nerve, ulnar nerve, and common fibular nerve.

Conclusion

When combined with TCM administration, the GBS treatment could acquire better outcomes.

Albumin levels as a biomarker for second Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment in Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS)

BACKGROUND

Patients with GBS may develop hypoalbuminemia following treatment with Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG), which is related to a poorer outcome. This report presents a patient with GBS and his clinical response to two courses of IVIG treatments in association with his albumin level.

CASE REPORT

A previously healthy 21-year-old male was admitted to the GICU due to GBS with severity grade 5 (required assisted ventilation). IVIG treatment was initiated. Over the next two weeks there was no clinical improvement and Albumin level dropped from 4.5 gr/dL to a nadir of 2.3 gr/dL. A second course of IVIG was initiated. After initiation of the second course the patient's albumin began rising to 3.0 gr/dL and a clinical improvement followed this rise. Subsequently, he was weaned from mechanical ventilation within a few days.

CONCLUSIONS

When considering a second course of IVIG treatment, serum albumin levels may be considered a biomarker as part of the decision algorithm.

Guillain-Barre syndrome as the first manifestation of juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus: a case report

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease which involves multiple organs, including peripheral nervous system.

Case presentation: We describe a 12-year-old boy with progressively worsening neurological symptoms as first manifestation. Legs pain, loss of balance, and lower extremity weakness were the reason for his admission in neurologic ward. The patient was started on intravenous immunoglobulin therapy due to the possibility of Guillain–Barre syndrome and acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP). However, there was no appropriate response and he developed recurrent attacks of polyneuropathy again with diagnosis of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). Then, he received intravenous pulse of methylprednisolone for 5 consecutive days followed by oral prednisolone for 3 months. One month after withdrawal of corticosteroid he admitted again with the same manifestations. Rheumatologic workup revealed the presence of leukopenia, hemolytic anemia, hematuria, proteinuria, positive antinuclear antibodies, and ds-DNA antibodies. On the basis of the American College of Rheumatology and Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics Classification Criteria for SLE, the patient had underlying diagnosis of SLE. Eventually, he was treated by the pulse of methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide, and oral hydroxychloroquine and prednisolone. His neurological and physical symptoms improved and complete neurological recovery occurred several months later.

Conclusion: SLE and AIDP/CIDP are different entities, but ADP/CIDP can be part of the neurologic manifestations of the SLE. Although the association between AIDP/CIDP and SLE is very rare especially as a first manifestation of SLE, it should be early recognized for rapid appropriate treatment.

Rare variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome after chikungunya viral fever

Chikungunya (CHIK) viral fever is a self-limiting illness that presents with severe debilitating arthralgia, myalgia, fever and rash. Neurological complications are rare. We present a case of a 36-year-old woman who presented with acute onset progressive difficulty swallowing and left arm weakness. She was diagnosed with CHIK viral fever 4 weeks prior to admission. After investigations, she was diagnosed with a pharyngeal-cervical-brachial variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome. In hospital, she required ventilator support. Her condition improved after five sessions of intravenous immunoglobulin with almost complete resolution within 6 months of symptom onset. With frequent CHIK outbreaks, the neurological complications are increasingly seen in the emergency department. The knowledge of these associations will result in early diagnosis and treatment.

Neurologic complications of kidney transplantation

Renal transplant is the most common organ transplant in the United States, and the frequency of kidney transplants continues to rise as transplant offers improved survival and quality of life compared to dialysis. However, complications are not uncommon and patients frequently encounter issues requiring hospitalization, especially in the first year postoperatively. Complications that arise are typically related to surgical complications, immunosuppressive medications, or infection due to immunosuppression. Neurological complications are fairly common post-operatively, and are associated with increased morbidity and mortality in this population. This review discusses the most common etiologies of neurological complications after kidney transplant, including infection, malignancy, medication related, acute neuropathy, and other neurological pathology.

Acute combined central and peripheral nervous system demyelination: a case report

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) are demyelinating neurologic disorders with different target organs. Although they share similar pathogenetic mechanism, reports of simultaneous occurrence of the 2 disorders are rare. A 2 year 6 month old girl visited our hospital for fever, cough, and general weakness. Although the muscle power of extremities showed mild weakness and voiding difficulty, initial deep tendon reflex of both knees and ankles was normal. A nerve conduction study to evaluate the weakness revealed the absence of F waves. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis demonstrated pleocytosis with lymphocyte predominance and elevated protein levels. Magnetic resonance imaging showed abnormal T2 hyperintensity in pons, medulla and spinal cord. Serum anti-GD1b antibody was positive. Based on clinical findings, laboratory findings, nerve conduction study, and neuroimaging, the diagnosis of GBS and ADEM was made. This is the first case of GBS accompanied by ADEM in Korea.

Diffusion Tensor Imaging of Tibial and Common Peroneal Nerves in Patients With Guillain-Barre Syndrome: A Feasibility Study

BACKGROUND

The development of a noninvasive, objective, and accurate method to assess peripheral nerve disorders in Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is of clinical significance. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) has been used to evaluate some peripheral nerve disorders.

PURPOSE

To investigate the feasibility of DTI in evaluating the peripheral nerve disorders in patients with GBS.

STUDY TYPE

Case control.

SUBJECTS

Twenty GBS patients and 16 healthy volunteers.

FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE

3.0T, T₁ WI-SE, T₂ WI-SPAIR, DTI; electrophysiology.

ASSESSMENT

MRI data were analyzed by two radiologists blindly and independently. Fractional anisotropy (FA), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), axial diffusion coefficient (AD), and radial diffusion coefficient (RD) values of tibial nerve (TN) and common peroneal nerve (CPN) were recorded. Motor nerve conduction velocity (MCV) and motor nerve conduction amplitude of TN and CPN were recorded.

STATISTICAL TESTS

Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), t-test, receiver-operating characteristic (ROC), and area under the curve (AUC) analysis, Pearson correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

The FA and AD values of TN and CPN in the GBS group were significantly lower and the ADC and RD values were higher than those in the controls (P <0.05). The AUC of the FA values (0.970 for TN and 0.927 for CPN) were higher than that of the ADC, AD, and RD values. FA and AD values were positively correlated and ADC, RD values were negatively correlated with MCV and motor nerve conduction amplitude, respectively (P <0.05). The correlations between FA value and electrophysiology parameters were the highest.

DATA CONCLUSION

DTI quantitative parameters could evaluate the disorders of peripheral nerves in patients with GBS. A moderate correlation was observed between DTI and electrophysiology parameters.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Technical Efficacy: Stage 1 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:1356-1364.

The First Case Report of West Nile Virus-Induced Acute Flaccid Quadriplegia in Canada

The 1999 New York City outbreak of West Nile virus (WNV) was associated with a high incidence of West Nile virus neuroinvasive disease (WNVND) where the outcomes for these patients were very poor. We describe a case of West Nile virus neuroinvasive disease (WNVND) characterized by acute flaccid quadriplegia with a favorable outcome in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

Prognostic factors of Guillain-Barré syndrome: a 111-case retrospective review

Background

To identify the predictive factors associated with worse prognosis in the Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), which can be helpful to fully evaluate the disease progression and provide proper treatments.

Methods

Clinical data of 111 GBS patients who were diagnosed from 2010 to 2015 were collected and retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Patients with diabetes (P=0.031), high blood pressure at admission (P=0.034), uroschesis (P=0.028), fever (P<0.001), ventilator support (P<0.001) during hospitalization, disorder of consciousness (p=0.007) and absence of preceding respiratory infection(P=0.016) were associated with worse outcome at discharge, while abnormal sensation, ataxia, weakness and decrease of tendon reflex seemed not correlated with the Medical Research Council(MRC) score at discharge. Compared with the subtype of acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, prognosis of Miller-Fisher syndrome (p<0.001) and cranial nerve variant (p<0.038) were better, but prognosis of acute motor axonal neuropathy(AMAN) was worse (p<0.032). Laboratory examinations at admission showed that hyperglycemia (P=0.002), high leukocyte count (P=0.010), hyperfibrinogenemia (P=0.001), hyponatremia (P=0.020), hypoalbuminemia (P=0.005), abnormal hepatic (P=0.048) and renal (P=0.009) functions were associated with poorer prognosis at discharge, while albuminocytologic dissociation in cerebrospinal fluid, GM1 and GQ1b antibody showed no correlation with the MRC score at discharge. γ-Globulin and glucocorticoid therapies showed no difference in the MRC score at the discharge.

Conclusions

AMAN, diabetes, high blood pressure, uroschesis, high body temperature, ventilator support, consciousness disorder, absence of upper respiratory tract preceding infection, hyperglycemia, hyponatremia, hypoalbuminemia, high leukocyte count, hyperfibrinogenemia, abnormal hepatic and renal function were demonstrated as poor prognostic factors.

Biological Drugs in Guillain-Barré Syndrome: An Update

Background:

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is currently considered the most common global cause of acute flaccid paralysis. Currently, standard therapy for Guillain-Barré Syndrome includes intravenous immunoglobulin or plasma exchange. Despite medical advances regarding these treatments, many treated patients do not reach full recovery. Therefore several biological agents have attracted the attentions from researchers during the last decades, and various studies have investigated their role in Guillain-Barré Syndrome.

Objective:

The present study aims to address emerging biological approaches to GBS while considering their efficiency and safety in treating the disease.

Materials and Methods:

An extensive electronic literature search was conducted by two researchers from April 2016 to July 2016. Original articles, clinical trials, systematic reviews (with or without meta-analysis) and case reports were selected. Titles and abstracts of papers were screened by reviewers to determine whether they met the eligibility criteria, and full texts of the selected articles were retrieved.

Results:

Herein authors focused on the literature data concerning emerging biological therapeutic agents, namely anti-C5 monoclonal antibody (Eculizumab), anti-C1q monoclonal antibody, anti-T cell monoclonal antibody, anti-CD2 monoclonal antibody, anti L-selectin monoclonal antibody, anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody (Rituximab), anti-CD52 monoclonal antibody (Alemtuzumab) and cytokine targets. By far, none of these agents have been approved for the treatment of GBS by FDA.

Conclusion:

Literature findings represented in current review herald promising results for using these biological targets. Current review represents a summary of what is already in regards and what progress is required to improve the immunotherapeutic approach of treating GBS via future studies.

Nonclinical Development of ANX005: A Humanized Anti-C1q Antibody for Treatment of Autoimmune and Neurodegenerative Diseases

ANX005 is a humanized immunoglobulin G4 recombinant antibody against C1q that inhibits its function as the initiating molecule of the classical complement cascade. The safety and tolerability of ANX005 are currently being evaluated in a phase I trial in healthy volunteers ( www.clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT03010046). Inhibition of C1q can be applied therapeutically in a broad spectrum of diseases, including acute antibody-mediated autoimmune disease, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), and in chronic diseases of the central nervous system involving complement-mediated neurodegeneration, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). To support the clinical development of ANX005, several studies were conducted to assess the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and potential toxicity of ANX005. ANX-M1, the murine precursor of ANX005, functionally inhibits the classical complement cascade both in vitro and in vivo, to protect against disease pathology in mouse models of GBS and AD. Toxicology studies with ANX005, itself, showed that intravenous administration once weekly for 4 weeks was well tolerated in rats and monkeys, with no treatment-related adverse findings. Serum levels of ANX005 in monkeys correlate with a reduction in free C1q levels both in the serum and in the cerebrospinal fluid. In summary, ANX005 has shown proof of concept in in vitro and in vivo nonclinical pharmacology models, with no toxicity in the 4-week repeat-dose studies in rats and monkeys. The no observed adverse effect level was 200 mg/kg/dose, which is 200-fold higher than the first-in-human starting dose of 1 mg/kg in healthy volunteers.