Co-existent ulcerative colitis and Guillain-Barré syndrome: a case report and literature review

Abstract

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic and recurrent inflammatory disease involving the intestine, and Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is rapid-onset muscle weakness caused by the immune system damaging the peripheral nervous system. UC and GBS can be caused by immune system abnormalities and can co-exist. To date, there are 7 reported cases of GBS in patients with UC. However, only one patient developed UC after GBS treatment. We report a rare case of UC that appeared after intravenous immunoglobulin therapy for GBS. This case report and literature review will allow accurate and prompt diagnosis of co-existent GBS and UC.

Keywords: Extraintestinal manifestation; Guillain–Barré syndrome; Intravenous immunoglobulin; Ulcerative colitis.