A Case of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Presenting as Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Abstract

Acute demyelinating polyneuropathy has been reported only twice as a presenting feature of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in female patients. We report a male presenting with an acute demyelinating polyneuropathy who subsequently was found to have SLE.

Efficacy of low-dose intravenous cyclophosphamide in systemic lupus erythematosus presenting with Guillain-Barré syndrome-like acute axonal neuropathies: report of two cases

“…2 However, Guillain-Barre´syn-drome (GBS), which is a demyelinating polyneuropathy, is a rare complication in lupus. 3,4 The neurologic deficits and associated disability that occur in GBS are mainly related to processes affecting nerve fibers, namely segmental demyelination and axonal degeneration. 5 There are anecdotal reports of GBS presenting as the initial manifestation of SLE; however, the variant forms of GBS have been described mainly as late complications.…”

Guillain-Barr� syndrome accompanied by central nervous system lupus in a patient with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

“…Several authors have reported neurological manifestations similar to GBS in patients with SLE. [8][9][10][11][12][13][14] Some claimed a possible involvement of immunological abnormalities in SLE in the pathogenesis of GBS. Robson et al 14 reviewed these cases and suggested the mechanisms of GBS onset in SLE patients.…”

Vasculitic polyradiculopathy in systemic lupus erythematosus

“…A clinical picture of proximal and distal weakness, areflexia, and increased CSF protein (a polyradiculopathy), evolving either acutely4 5 or chronically6-8 has also been well documented. Electrophysiological studies and the patients’ clinical course have consistently implicated demyelination as an important pathophysiological element 4-6.…”

“…2 Disease of the peripheral nervous system most often presents as a sensorimotor polyneuropathy,2 3 with less common syndromes including mononeuropathy multiplex or asymmetric polyneuropathies, and an acute4 5 or chronic6 demyelinating polyradiculopathy.…”