Children (Dec 2022)

Diagnostic Pitfalls in Guillain–Barré Syndrome: Case Report and Literature Review

  • Vasile Valeriu Lupu,
  • Ingrith Miron,
  • Anca Lavinia Cianga,
  • Cristina Gavrilovici,
  • Ioana Grigore,
  • Alexandru Gabriel David,
  • Leonard Iosif Pertea,
  • Ecaterina Grigore,
  • Diana Elena David,
  • Ancuta Lupu

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/children9121969
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 9, no. 12
p. 1969

Abstract

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Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) represents a group of acute immune-mediated polyradiculoneuropathies that is usually characterized by symmetrical limb weakness and areflexia. GBS can also lead to atypical clinical findings, which may lead to confusion and errors in the diagnosis. In this report, we describe a case of Guillain–Barré syndrome in a 7-year-old child who presented with neck stiffness, headache and vomiting mimicking acute meningoencephalitis, arthritis and myositis. Symptoms of ascending paralysis developed subsequently. Clearly, the atypical presentation of GBS is a significant dilemma for pediatricians and may lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment.

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