Fatal recurrent Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) in an Ethiopian male: a case report

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a disease affecting the peripheral nerves, leading to a constellation of motor, sensory, and autonomic symptoms. It typically has a monophasic course, and recurrence is the exception rather than the case, so much is not known about it. We discuss the risk factors, presentation, and course of patients with recurrent Guillain-Barré syndrome.

A 28-year-old Ethiopian male presented with progressive ascending weakness that started from the lower extremities but spread to involve his respiratory muscles and resulted in respiratory failure. He had a similar but milder presentation 3 years prior and achieved a complete recovery. He was admitted to the intensive care unit where he passed away after 4 days.

Guillain-Barré syndrome can recur after years of complete recovery, and subsequent episodes tend to be more severe than the initial attack. Young age and lack of comorbidities are not determinants of clinical outcome in patients with recurrent Guillain-Barré syndrome.