A case series on Guillain Barre Syndrome in pregnancy in a tertiary care hospital

Authors: Rajani Upadhyaya, shripad hebbar, pooja adiga

DOI: 10.18231/j.ijogr.8438.1759128419

Keywords: Guillain-Barre syndrome, intravenous immunoglobulin, lower section caesarean section, pregnancy, post-partum period.

Abstract: Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) in pregnancy is a rare occurrence. It presents as ascending paralysis. GBS in pregnancy affects both the mother and the fetus. It often presents in the peripartum period. The physiologic changes in pregnancy and mimicking of symptoms of GBS lead to substantial delays in diagnosis and initiation of treatment. Advanced stages of the disease may be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In this case series, we present 10 cases encountered over a period of 10 years in our Institute. The diagnosis was confirmed on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) evaluation and nerve conduction studies (NCS). 80% patients were treated with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). There was one case of maternal mortality and still birth. 80% of the patients had some residual weakness on discharge. Maintaining a high index of suspicion for non-specific neurological complaints in pregnant patients may aid in early diagnosis and prompt initiation of treatment in GBS patients. GBS is not an indication for lower section caesarean section (LSCS). Hence, unnecessary surgical interventions may be avoided.