Atypical Miller Fisher Syndrome with Anisocoria and Rapidly Fluctuating Pupillary Diameter

Garima Gupta1, Antonio Liu2

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, White Memorial Medical Center, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, 1720 E. Cesar Chavez Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA.

Insights

Miller Fisher syndrome (MFS), a Guillain-Barre syndrome variant, can present atypically. This case highlights isolated ophthalmoplegia with pupillary abnormalities as a sole MFS manifestation.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Miller Fisher syndrome (MFS) is a rare variant of Guillain-Barre syndrome.
  • Typical MFS involves ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and areflexia.
  • Pupillary abnormalities are reported in 35-42% of MFS cases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe an atypical presentation of MFS.
  • To highlight isolated ophthalmoplegia with pupillary fluctuations and anisocoria in an anti-GQ1b antibody-positive individual.

Main Methods:

  • Case report of a patient presenting with diplopia.
  • Clinical examination, serum antibody testing (anti-GQ1b, anti-GAD), and CSF analysis.
  • Treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and steroids.

Main Results:

  • The patient exhibited progressive internal and external ophthalmoplegia with fluctuating pupillary diameter and anisocoria.
  • Serum anti-GQ1b and anti-GAD antibody levels were elevated.
  • Symptoms improved with IVIG and steroids, without developing ataxia or areflexia.

Conclusions:

  • Isolated ophthalmoparesis with significant pupillary abnormalities can be the sole manifestation of atypical MFS.
  • This presentation expands the spectrum of MFS, particularly in anti-GQ1b antibody-positive individuals.

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