Guillain-Barre Syndrome in Patients With Cystic Fibrosis: A Case Series.

Abstract

People with cystic fibrosis (CF) typically experience chronic respiratory infections, but neurological sequelae are rare. Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is classically precipitated by a respiratory or gastrointestinal infection, although other rarer aetiologies exist. This case series outlines four adults with CF who developed GBS. The association with acute and chronic respiratory infections in people with CF is explored, as well as other potential precipitants. An autoimmune phenomenon in the context of chronic systemic inflammation or a possible contributory role of dysfunctional CFTR protein is also considered.