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Published on: February 17, 2018
Guillain-Barré Syndrome Presenting With New-Onset Heart Failure.
Priya Ramcharan1, Arun Katwaroo2, Matthew Maharaj1
1Department of Medicine, North Central Regional Health Authority, Trinidad and Tobago.
Summary
Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) can rarely cause acute heart failure and cardiogenic shock. Early recognition and intensive care are crucial for this rare but severe GBS complication.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an immune-mediated polyneuropathy affecting the nervous system.
- Autonomic dysfunction in GBS can lead to hemodynamic instability and arrhythmias.
- Acute heart failure (AHF) is an exceptionally rare manifestation of GBS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of acute cardiomyopathy and cardiogenic shock in a patient with Guillain-Barré syndrome.
- To emphasize the potential for catastrophic cardiac sequelae in GBS.
- To highlight a possible genetic predisposition to GBS within a family.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 61-year-old male with GBS-related cardiac complications.
- Review of patient's medical history, including family history of GBS.
- Description of treatment with guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).
Main Results:
- The patient developed severe left ventricular dysfunction and cardiogenic shock.
- Despite aggressive medical management, the patient succumbed to the condition.
- A family history revealed previous GBS-related deaths and survivals, suggesting a potential genetic link.
Conclusions:
- Acute cardiomyopathy can be a rare, severe complication of Guillain-Barré syndrome.
- Prompt diagnosis and intensive supportive care are vital for managing cardiac dysfunction in GBS.
- Familial clustering suggests a possible genetic susceptibility to GBS.
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