Scrub typhus as a possible aetiology of Guillain-Barré syndrome: two cases

Ir J Med Sci. 2009 Sep;178(3):347-50. doi: 10.1007/s11845-008-0226-z. Epub 2008 Oct 16.

Abstract

Neurological complications of scrub typhus are reported to be rare. Peripheral nervous system involvement has been reported in only one case. We present two cases of Guillan-Barré syndrome (GBS) associated with scrub typhus. In both cases, the findings of an elevated indirect immunofluorescent antibody titer for Orientia tsutsugamushi and nerve conduction study showing sensory-motor polyneuropathy, have led us to believe that scrub typhus could be one of the antecedent illnesses associated with GBS.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Guillain-Barre Syndrome / etiology*
  • Guillain-Barre Syndrome / microbiology
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prednisolone / therapeutic use
  • Risk Factors
  • Scrub Typhus / complications*
  • Scrub Typhus / drug therapy

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
  • Prednisolone