Guillain-Barré Syndrome in pregnancy: A case report

Abstract

Background: The occurrence of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in pregnancy is rare. The risk of GBS in pregnancy increases in the third trimester and the first two weeks postpartum.
Case presentation: A 20-year-old primigravida at 34 weeks presented with rapidly progressive paralysis at the Kenyatta National Hospital. She gave a two-month history of sudden onset progressive and ascending lower limb weakness, and was unable to walk. However, she did not report experiencing any respiratory distress. The cerebrospinal fluid M proteins levels was 1 004 mg/L and creatinine kinase level was 158 U/L. A diagnosis of Guillain-Barré Syndrome was made. The patient was started on  Intravenous Immunoglobulins (IVIG) for five days combined with physiotherapy. The patient went into spontaneous labor at 39 weeks gestation and was delivered a live male infant. The infant was admitted to the Newborn Unit. Breastfeeding and care challenges were mitigated by the mother expressing breastmilk with assistance and the baby fed by the nurse.
Conclusion: Intravenous immunoglobulins and plasma exchange, with supportive care, offer good prognosis in the management of GBS. A combination of intravenous immunoglobulins with physiotherapy can hasten recovery.