Guillain-Barré Syndrome Presenting With Bulbar Symptoms: A Case Report

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an acute, immune-mediated neuropathy characterized by rapidly progressive, symmetrical weakness, areflexia, and variable sensory loss. It is often triggered by preceding respiratory or gastrointestinal infection through a mechanism of molecular mimicry, leading to demyelination or axonal injury. Diagnosis is supported by cerebrospinal fluid albumin-cytologic dissociation and nerve conduction studies. Early initiation of intravenous immunoglobulin or plasma exchange, alongside vigilant supportive care, reduces morbidity and prevents complications such as respiratory failure and autonomic instability. In this case report, we describe a patient presenting with vague and non-specific symptoms, including dizziness and lower back pain while walking, generalized weakness, and early bulbar symptoms such as difficulty swallowing and slurred speech. These early manifestations, though subtle, gradually progressed and prompted further evaluation, highlighting the stepwise diagnostic process, targeted investigations, and the multidisciplinary team approach that guided his medical management of GBS.