COVID-19 and Neonatal Guillain-Barré Syndrome: Exploring a Possible Causal Link With Review of Literature

IntroductionGuillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is an immune-mediated polyneuropathy that is rare in neonates. It may be acquired congenitally via maternal antibody transfer or postnatally after infection. We report a case of postnatally acquired neonatal GBS potentially triggered by SARS-CoV-2 with a review of the literature.PatientA 24-day-old term male presented with progressive hypotonia, a weak cry, and respiratory distress. He had a preceding febrile illness with gastrointestinal symptoms. Examination revealed areflexia, cranial nerve involvement, and generalised weakness.ResultsInvestigations showed albuminocytologic dissociation in cerebrospinal fluid, cauda equina enhancement on magnetic resonance imaging, and motor-sensory polyneuropathy on nerve conduction studies. The infant had high anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG (>4000 IU/mL) with negative maternal titres. After 2 courses of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), he recovered fully and remained developmentally normal at 2-year follow-up.ConclusionGBS should be considered in floppy neonates with a postinfectious presentation. This case highlights the possibility of SARS-CoV-2 as a postnatal trigger and the importance of early recognition and treatment with IVIg.