Case Report: AMSAN variant of GBS complicating immediate postpartum period with severe dysautonomia leading to Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome [version 2; peer review: 2 approved, 1 approved with reservations, 1 not approved]

Abstract

Abstract* A 20’s primiparous woman, following spontaneous expulsion of intrauterine death of the fetus at 30 weeks of gestation, presented on post-partum day 8 with acute onset flaccid quadriparesis and breathing difficulty, which had rapidly progressed to involve the legs on day 3 up to her upper limbs on post-partum day 5. Following examination, Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) with ascending diaphragmatic involvement was diagnosed, and plasma exchange was initiated. She developed raised blood pressure, headache, sudden onset visual loss with 2 episodes of generalized seizures on post-partum day 14. Brain MRI and clinical suspicion helped diagnose Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES). The patient was treated with anticonvulsants and antihypertensive agents. She regained her vision over the next two days, completed the treatment for GBS, and made a good recovery with independence for advanced activities of daily living on follow-up.

Keywords

• Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS)
• Acute Motor- Sensory Axonal Neuropathy (AMSAN)
• Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES)
• Plasma Exchange
• Post Partum
• Intrauterine Death
• eng