Pediatric neurology
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Pediatric neurology · Feb 2011
Comparative StudyRisk factors and outcomes of Guillain-Barré syndrome with acute myelitis.
Guillain-Barré syndrome and acute myelitis represent common and very rare etiologies of acute limb weakness in children, respectively. Typically, demyelination is most common, limited to either the central or peripheral nervous system. Concurrent acute myelitis and Guillain-Barré syndrome are seldom reported. ⋯ All children with sufficient follow-up continued to demonstrate residual paresis, and two demonstrated significant long-term motor deficits. Detection of a sharply defined sensory level, severe bladder dysfunction, and autonomic dysfunction can be helpful in recognizing concurrent acute myelitis. Therefore, recognition of this combination of peripheral and central nervous inflammation early is important for determining prognoses and perhaps initial treatment.