Guillain-Barré syndrome in pregnancy: a case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Guillain-Barré syndrome represents a heterogeneous group of immune-mediated peripheral neuropathies that are characterized by various clinical manifestations. Reporting this clinical case emphasizes the rarity of Guillain-Barré syndrome, the diagnostic challenges faced by healthcare providers, and the risk of delayed diagnosis for both the mother and fetus. A 34-year-old pregnant woman at 33 weeks of gestation presented to the inpatient ward complaining of paresthesia in the lower and upper limbs, muscle pain, balance disturbances, moderate headache, nausea and vertigo, general weakness, and pronounced fatigue. The patient had experienced an acute viral respiratory infection 4 weeks before presenting to the hospital. The patient was admitted to the intensive care unit with a preliminary diagnosis of acute viral respiratory infection and nasopharyngitis. The patient's condition worsened dynamically, manifesting bulbar syndrome (swallowing problems), paresthesia of the anterior abdominal wall, reduced perception of fetal movements, numbness of the tongue, and low fever (37.2°C). A diagnosis of acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculopathy (Guillain-Barré syndrome) was established. Despite treatment, the neurologic symptoms worsened. The paravertebral radicular type pains were difficult to manage with administered analgesic therapy, and there was a progression of the bulbar syndrome. Treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin was initiated. Consequently, it was recommended by the multidisciplinary council to perform an emergency cesarean delivery, in the interest of the mother and fetus. Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare condition that occurs during pregnancy and requires thorough evaluation, prompt multidisciplinary assessment, and individualized management of delivery to improve maternal and fetal prognosis.