Guillain-Barré Syndrome in a Patient Receiving Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor for Crohn Disease: Coincidence or Consequence?

Am J Case Rep. 2024 Jun 2:25:e943709. doi: 10.12659/AJCR.943709.

Abstract

BACKGROUND Antibodies against tumor necrosis factor alpha (anti-TNF-alpha) are currently widely used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), despite a number of reported adverse effects. Diverse neurologic syndromes, including the Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS), an immune-mediated disease characterized by evolving ascending limb weakness, sensory loss, and areflexia, have been described in association with anti-TNF-alpha therapy. CASE REPORT A 45-year-old White woman was in follow-up with fistulizing ileocolonic Crohn disease using combination therapy (infliximab plus azathioprine) as CD maintenance therapy. After 3 years of this immunosuppressive therapy, she presented with symmetrical and ascending paresis in the lower limbs, and later in the upper limbs, in addition to reduced reflexes in the knees, 1 day after an infliximab infusion. The patient was hospitalized and treatment for CD was suspended. Neurophysiology studies demonstrated a pattern compatible with acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculopathy, with predominantly motor involvement, consistent with Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS). Clinical, laboratory, and imaging exams were unremarkable. She was treated with intravenous immunoglobulins, with a progressive and complete resolution of neurological symptoms. After 1-year follow-up, she presented with active Crohn disease, and we opted for treating her with vedolizumab, with which she achieved clinical and endoscopic remission. CONCLUSIONS Patients receiving biological therapy with anti-TNF-alpha agents should be monitored for central or peripheral neurological signs and symptoms. The development of GBS can be secondary to anti-TNF-alpha treatment. The positive temporal relationship with TNF-alpha therapy and onset of neurological symptoms reinforces this possibility.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Crohn Disease* / complications
  • Crohn Disease* / drug therapy
  • Female
  • Guillain-Barre Syndrome* / chemically induced
  • Guillain-Barre Syndrome* / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Infliximab* / adverse effects
  • Infliximab* / therapeutic use
  • Middle Aged
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha* / antagonists & inhibitors

Substances

  • Infliximab
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha