A Case of Guillain-Barre Syndrome following Cervical Spinal Fusion

J Korean Assoc EMG Electrodiagn Med 2008;10(1):32-37.
Published online June 1, 2008.

Abstract

Guillain-Barre Syndrome is an idiopathic neurologic disorder usually presenting ascending progressiveand symmetric paralysis and lack of any sensory symptoms. We report a 41-years-old female who presentedwith symmetric lower limb paralysis and gait disturbance 5 weeks after cervical spinal fusion. Shedeveloped ascending progressive weakness from lower extremities up to upper extremities about 6 daysfollowing admission. The electrophysiological test of nerves in upper and lower extremities revealed prolongeddistal motor latencies and F wave latency, abnormal reduction of the compound muscle actionpotential and temporal dispersion. In the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the total protein content was elevatedto 405 mg/dL with normal glucose level without cells. Clinical features, electrophysiological test, andCSF examination were consistent with Guillain-Barre Syndrome.

Key Words: Guillain-Barre syndrome, Cervical spinal fusion, Electrodiagnosis