UNVEILING THE HIDDEN CONNECTION: LEPTOSPIRA AS AN ANTECEDENT IN GUILLAIN-BARRÉ SYNDROME

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is an immune-mediated acute polyneuropathy often triggered by infections. Although rare, leptospirosis, a zoonotic bacterial infection, can precede GBS, particularly in endemic regions. We report a case of GBS in a 32-year-old woman following leptospirosis. She presented with ascending lower motor neuron (LMN) quadriparesis, along with bulbar and respiratory involvement. Nerve conduction studies suggested the AMSAN variant of GBS. In addition to standard IVIg treatment for GBS, she was also treated with doxycycline due to positive Leptospira IgG and IgM results, indicating a recent leptospirosis infection. She showed a fairly good clinical recovery. The association of leptospirosis with GBS is not well-documented in previous literature. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing leptospirosis as a potential antecedent in GBS, particularly in endemic regions, and highlights the role of early intervention in improving outcomes.