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Heterotopic ossification Post-Guillain-Barre syndrome in Saudi Arabia: a case report
Mansour M Aldhilan1, Abdullah H Alshahrani2
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Ar Rass General Hospital, Ar Rass.
Background:
Heterotopic ossification (HO) is the formation of bone within the soft tissues. It can be a complication of Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS). There are many risk factors for HO, including male sex, mechanical ventilation, and neurogenic trauma. Myelin and axons are the main targets and areas of injury in GBS, an autoimmune-inflammatory neuropathy. Literature shows that this may possibly be associated with the initial administration of the COVID-19 vaccine and GBS.
Presentation Of The Case:
A 27-year-old male was diagnosed with bile reflux gastritis. Days later, he presented to the emergency room (ER) with progressive weakness and a critical condition that required ICU. The patient undergoes intubation and remains in the ICU for 4 months. The patient, after extensive rehabilitation, started to complain of left hip pain and limitations of motion. Radiographs confirmed the HO diagnosis. Past drug history showed patients received a single dose of the COVID-19 vaccine 15 days before presentation to the ER.
Discussion:
There is no clear association between the COVID-19 vaccination and GBS. HO is the formation of abnormal bone within soft tissue. HO post-GBS usually affects large joints like the hips, knees, and shoulders. Researchers poorly understand the pathogenesis of GBS.
Conclusion:
Despite the absence of a definitive correlation between GSB and the COVID-19 vaccine. Physicians should maintain a state of suspicion while treating patients with a progressive weakness. Additional research is required.
