Lower limb and back pain in Guillain-Barré syndrome and associated contrast enhancement in MRI of the cauda equina

Autor: J M, Wilmshurst, N H, Thomas, R O, Robinson, J B, Bingham, K R, Pohl
Rok vydání: 2001
Předmět:
Zdroj: Acta paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992). 90(6)
ISSN: 0803-5253
Popis: This study assesses the frequency of lower limb and back pain in children with Guillain-Barré syndrome and reviews the magnetic resonance imaging results of those undergoing spinal imaging. Over an 8-y period, nine children presented with various combinations of severe back pain, leg pains, impairment of gait and bladder dysfunction. Guillain-Barré syndrome was confirmed on clinical examination and peripheral electrophysiology (n = 8). Magnetic resonance imaging in four patients, following contrast injection, showed enhancement of the cauda equine and, additionally, of the cervical nerve roots in one of the patients. A further patient, who was not scanned with contrast, had abnormal thickening of the lumbar roots. Carbamazepine and steroids were effectively used for analgesia in three cases. All the patients recovered.Guillain-Barré syndrome should be considered in the differential diagnosis of children presenting with back and/or leg pain. Early diagnosis ensures prompt monitoring for autonomic dysfunction and respiratory compromise.
Databáze: OpenAIRE