Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 17, 2025
A Simple Approach to Induce Experimental Autoimmune Neuritis in C57BL/6 Mice for Functional and Neuropathological Assessments
Published on: November 9, 2017
Ascending Trouble: Guillain-Barré-Like Syndrome Due to West Nile Virus
Patricia E Simmer1, Victoria Powell2, Virginia Hoch2
1Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, Christiana Care Health System, Newark, USA.
Abstract:
Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and GBS-like syndromes secondary to West Nile virus (WNV) are rare and poorly characterized. GBS is an immune-mediated disease that affects peripheral nerves, classically in a symmetrical and ascending pattern. It is generally associated with infectious microbes, but not classically with WNV. WNV, although a relatively new pathogen in the United States, has become a leading mosquito-borne viral infection in the country. We present a case of a patient who came to the hospital in Delaware, USA, with fever and confusion that rapidly progressed to worsening encephalopathy and paralysis requiring intubation and vasopressor support. This case emphasizes the need to include GBS or GBS-like syndromes on the differential in patients with encephalopathy and neurological changes, particularly in the setting of an increasing incidence of WNV infection in the United States.
Insights
West Nile virus (WNV) can cause rare Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS)-like neurological conditions. Early recognition of WNV-associated GBS is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an immune-mediated peripheral neuropathy, typically linked to infections but not classically West Nile virus (WNV).
- West Nile virus (WNV) is a significant mosquito-borne pathogen in the United States, with increasing incidence.
Observation:
- A case presented with fever and confusion, rapidly progressing to encephalopathy and paralysis requiring intensive support.
- The patient developed neurological deficits consistent with GBS-like syndromes.
Findings:
- This case highlights a rare presentation of GBS secondary to West Nile virus (WNV) infection.
- The patient required intubation and vasopressor support due to severe neurological compromise.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider GBS or GBS-like syndromes in patients presenting with encephalopathy and neurological changes.
- Increased WNV incidence necessitates heightened awareness of its potential neurological complications, including GBS.
More Related Videos
10:39In Vitro Analysis of Myd88-mediated Cellular Immune Response to West Nile Virus Mutant Strain Infection
Published on: November 27, 2014
09:29Induction of Paralysis and Visual System Injury in Mice by T Cells Specific for Neuromyelitis Optica Autoantigen Aquaporin-4
Published on: August 21, 2017
