Guillain-Barré Syndrome as an Uncommon Complication of Dengue Infection

Abstract

Dengue fever is caused by an arbovirus transmitted through the Aedes aegypti mosquito. It commonly presents with fever and myalgia. Being a hemorrhagic fever, neurological complications are uncommon. Therefore, this case highlights the rare but significant association between Dengue and Guillain-Barre Syndrome. A 42-year-old woman contracted Dengue while traveling through an endemic region. The course of her infection was uncomplicated, with a stable platelet count. However, 7 days after recovery, she developed peripheral neurological symptoms and an unsteady gait. Clinical examination revealed features suggestive of a Lower Motor Neuron lesion. The nerve conduction study confirmed the diagnosis of GBS, and she was started on IVIG. The early detection and timely administration of IVIG ensured that she made a full recovery with no neurological deficits.Hence, the physician must maintain a high index of suspicion to identify suggestive clinical signs. The timeline of this particular presentation further underscores the importance of the early administration of IVIG in reversing neurological manifestations. Categories: Neurology, Allergy/Immunology, Infectious Disease

Keywords: intravenous immunoglobulin (ivig), molecular mimicry, post-infectious neuropathy, dengue fever, s: guillain-barré syndrome (gbs)