Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 17, 2026
An Efficient and Simple Method to Establish NK and T Cell Lines from Patients with Chronic Active Epstein-Barr Virus Infection
Published on: March 30, 2018
Pediatric Miller Fisher Syndrome Complicating an Epstein-Barr Virus Infection
Céline Communal1, Anne Filleron2, Sandrine Baron-Joly1
1Department of Paediatrics, Nîmes University Hospital, Nîmes, France.
Background:
Miller Fisher syndrome, a variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome, is an acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy that may occur weeks after a bacterial or viral infection. Campylobacter jejuni and Haemophilus influenzae are frequently reported etiological agents.
Patient Description:
We describe a boy with Miller Fisher syndrome following Epstein-002DBarr virus primary infectious mononucleosis. He presented with bilateral dysfunction of several cranial nerves and hyporeflexia of the limbs but without ataxia. Miller Fisher syndrome was confirmed by the presence of anti-GQ1b antibodies in a blood sample. Epstein-Barr virus was identified by polymerase chain reaction and serology.
Conclusion:
Epstein-Barr virus should be considered as a Miller Fisher syndrome's causative agent. The physiopathology of this condition may involve cross-reactive T-cells against Epstein-Barr virus antigens and gangliosides.
Insights
Miller Fisher syndrome, a Guillain-Barré syndrome variant, can follow Epstein-Barr virus infections. This case highlights the virus as a potential trigger for this neurological disorder.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Miller Fisher syndrome (MFS) is a rare variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome, characterized by acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy.
- Commonly associated with bacterial or viral infections, such as Campylobacter jejuni and Haemophilus influenzae.
Observation:
- A case report of a boy presenting with MFS following primary Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infectious mononucleosis.
- The patient exhibited bilateral cranial nerve dysfunction and limb hyporeflexia, notably without ataxia.
- Diagnosis was confirmed by anti-GQ1b antibodies and identification of EBV via PCR and serology.
Findings:
- Epstein-Barr virus is identified as a potential etiological agent for Miller Fisher syndrome.
- The presence of anti-GQ1b antibodies supports the diagnosis of MFS in this context.
- EBV infection can precede the onset of MFS symptoms.
Implications:
- EBV should be considered in the differential diagnosis of MFS, particularly after infectious mononucleosis.
- The physiopathology may involve T-cell cross-reactivity between EBV antigens and gangliosides.
- Understanding this association can aid in early diagnosis and management of MFS.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion
01:24Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Metabolism