Work

Guillain-Barré Syndrome With Asymmetrical Weakness in a Patient With Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease Type 1A

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: A man in his 60s presented with acute, progressive right lower limb weakness, low back pain, and paraesthesia. Neuroimaging ruled out spinal cord and central pathology. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed albumin-cytological dissociation, and nerve conduction studies confirmed Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) superimposed on Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A). There was no preceding infection or ganglioside antibody positivity. His weakness progressed rapidly, resulting in flaccid paralysis of the right leg. He received intravenous immunoglobulin with marked clinical improvement and regained independent mobility by follow-up. This case is notable for its atypical, asymmetrical presentation of GBS in the context of pre-existing hereditary neuropathy, posing diagnostic challenges. It contributes to the limited literature on overlapping GBS and CMT1A and reinforces the importance of early investigation and immunotherapy in non-classical cases. The case highlights that reflex loss and chronic neuropathy should not preclude consideration of acute treatable causes.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.94525

Authors: Kawser Ahmed, Mohammed Elachola, Hasan Alsararatee, Nichola Pugh

Institutions: Northampton General Hospital, Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust

Language: English

Topic: Peripheral Neuropathies and Disorders

Subfield: Neurology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4415170960