Guillain-Barre Syndrome after Appendectomy: A case report

ABSTRACT

Background@#Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is an acute monophasic paralyzing illness that typically occurs after gastroenteritis and respiratory tract infection. Antecedent surgical procedures are less recognized trigger of GBS.@*Objectives@#This paper aims to report a case of demyelinating variety of GBS that developed after appendectomy.@*Methods@#This is a case of a 39-year-old Filipino male who was admitted due to acute appendicitis. He developed lower extremity weakness 4 days after appendectomy. His motor deficit initially presented distally from lower extremities, which advanced to the trunk, upper extremities, and muscles of speech and deglutition. Paresthesia of the fingers and toes and distal areflexia on both lower extremities were also elicited.@*Results@#Diagnosis was done clinically. Nerve conduction study showed demyelinating variant, uncommon for a post traumatic GBS. Supportive care was rendered which resulted in complete recovery.@*Conclusion@#Surgery is a known but less identified cause of GBS. Although rare, we should consider GBS in patients presenting with ascending or progressive weakness after recent surgery because its early identification renders immediate and appropriate treatment.