An Uncommon Presentation of Guillain-Barré Syndrome in a Young Postpartum Woman

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a heterogeneous condition, with demyelinating and axonal variants, often triggered by infections, though many cases occur without a clear antecedent. The postpartum period is increasingly recognized as a risk window for autoimmune conditions due to immune rebound following delivery. While GBS during pregnancy is uncommon, susceptibility rises in the early postpartum phase, particularly within the first three months. This report describes the case of a young woman who developed GBS in the third month postpartum following a vaginal delivery complicated by manual removal of a retained placenta. She initially presented with back pain, dizziness, and progressive lower limb weakness, which evolved into complete immobility. Neurological examination revealed ascending weakness, bilateral lower motor neuron facial nerve palsy, bulbar symptoms, urinary retention, and areflexia. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis demonstrated albuminocytologic dissociation. Nerve conduction studies showed features consistent with acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP), including prolonged distal motor latencies, reduced conduction velocities, and absent F-waves. The patient was treated with a five-day course of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), along with supportive care including thromboprophylaxis, pain management, and close monitoring of respiratory and autonomic function. This case highlights the importance of considering GBS in postpartum patients with evolving neuromuscular symptoms and reinforces the need for timely diagnosis and intervention to improve outcomes.