Miller Fisher syndrome
Suresh Kumar Gupta1, Kunal Kishor Jha2, Mhd Diaa Chalati3
1Department of Internal Medicine/Geriatrics, Forest Glen Medical Center, Silver Spring, Tennessee, USA.
BMJ Case Reports
|October 15, 2016
Summary
Miller Fisher syndrome, a rare neurological disorder, was diagnosed in a 30-year-old male presenting with ataxia and weakness. Treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin was initiated after ruling out IgA deficiency.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
Background:
- Miller Fisher syndrome (MFS) is a rare variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome.
- It is characterized by ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and areflexia.
Observation:
- A 30-year-old male presented with acute onset of ataxia, areflexia, facial weakness, ophthalmoplegia, extremity weakness, and back pain.
- The patient reported a preceding two-week history of diarrhea.
Findings:
- Clinical presentation and investigations confirmed the diagnosis of Miller Fisher syndrome.
- Nerve conduction studies and anti-GQ1b IgG antibody analysis were crucial for diagnosis.
- IgA deficiency was ruled out as a potential complicating factor.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and treatment of Miller Fisher syndrome are essential for patient recovery.
- Intravenous immunoglobulin therapy is a recognized treatment modality for MFS.
- Understanding the association with preceding infections like diarrhea aids in early recognition.
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