Posterior reversible encephalopathy and Guillain-Barré syndrome: which came first, the chicken or the egg? A review of literature

Neurol Sci. 2020 Dec;41(12):3663-3666. doi: 10.1007/s10072-020-04496-1. Epub 2020 Jun 6.

Abstract

Posterior reversible encephalopathy (PRES) is a rare occurrence in patients with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) with only nine adult cases reported to date. We conducted a review of the literature and compared previous cases with a novel case admitted to our clinic. In light of the timing of the symptoms, it is assumable that arterial hypertension can develop acutely during a phase of GBS-related autonomic dysfunction and subsequently precipitates PRES. According to this, dysautonomia caused by GBS could precede motor weakness; thus, PRES in the absence of any strong alternative etiology may suggest an underlying GBS.

Keywords: Arterial hypertension; Dysautonomia; Guillain–Barré syndrome; Magnetic resonance imaging; Posterior reversible encephalopathy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ambulatory Care Facilities
  • Brain Diseases*
  • Guillain-Barre Syndrome* / complications
  • Guillain-Barre Syndrome* / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Hypertension*
  • Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome*