Some patients who have been recently vaccinated will develop the Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) or related conditions (Miller Fisher Syndrome, Bickerstaff Syndrome).
Vaccines associated with GB-spectrum disorders:
(1) influenza
(2) pneumococcal
(3) multi-organism (Diphtheria-Pertussis-Tetanus)
Consideration in the diagnosis of vaccinate-related GBS:
(1) evidence of anti-ganglioside antibodies (since other conditions may mimic GBS)
(2) exclusion of other conditions that can cause anti-ganglioside antibodies (infection, autoimmune, paraneoplastic)
(3) pre-existing anti-ganglioside antibodies stimulated by vaccination
Future vaccination can pose a problem for a patient with a history of post-vaccination GBS. It is necessary to balance the risk of recurrent GBS versus benefits of vaccination versus alternative methods of protection.
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
