[Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis after upper respiratory infection].

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Immunology

Background:

• Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis (BE) is a rare neurological disorder characterized by ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and altered sensorium, often following an infection.
• BE is typically associated with the anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome, placing it within the spectrum of Miller Fisher syndrome and Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Observation:

• This report details a 48-year-old woman presenting with symptoms consistent with probable BE.
• The patient's presentation occurred without the presence of anti-GQ1b antibodies.

Findings:

• The case provides a detailed account of the patient's history, diagnostic workup, treatment, and follow-up.
• The findings are analyzed in the context of international diagnostic criteria for BE.

Implications:

• This case expands the understanding of BE, particularly in presentations that deviate from the typical anti-GQ1b antibody association.
• It underscores the importance of considering BE even in the absence of specific antibodies, prompting a review of diagnostic guidelines.