Guillain-Barre syndrome caused by hepatitis E infection: case report and literature review

Abstract Background Hepatitis E infection is a global disorder that causes substantial morbidity. Numerous neurologic illnesses, including Guillain–Barre syndrome (GBS), have occurred in patients with hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection. Case presentation We report a 58 year-old non-immunocompromised...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Xiaoqin Zheng, Liang Yu, Qiaomai Xu, Silan Gu, Lingling Tang
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2018-01-01
Series:BMC Infectious Diseases
Subjects:
Online Access:http://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12879-018-2959-2
Description
Summary:Abstract Background Hepatitis E infection is a global disorder that causes substantial morbidity. Numerous neurologic illnesses, including Guillain–Barre syndrome (GBS), have occurred in patients with hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection. Case presentation We report a 58 year-old non-immunocompromised man who presented with progressive muscle weakness in all extremities during an episode of acute HEV infection, which was confirmed by measuring the anti-HEV IgM antibodies in the serum. Both cerebrospinal fluid examination and electrophysiological study were in agreement with the diagnosis of HEV-associated GBS. Following the treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin, the patient’s neurological condition improved rapidly. Conclusions HEV infection should be strongly considered in patients with neurological symptoms, especially those with elevated levels of liver enzymes.
ISSN:1471-2334