Beyond the mosquito sting: Guillain-Barre Syndrome following malarial seasonal surge

Abstract

Background and objective:

Malaria, a prevalent disease most commonly caused by Plasmodium vivax and falciparum, frequently leads to intricate neurological complications. The objective of this study was to study Guillain-Barre syndrome as a prevalent neurological manifestation of malaria.

Methods:

A cross-sectional observational study was undertaken at Neurology Department of Chandka Medical College Hospital in Larkana, from April 2023 to September 2023 during the seasonal peak of malaria. The study included 20 patients who met the specified criteria. SPSS version 23.0 was used for data analysis.

Results:

Among the 20 patients who developed Guillain-Barre Syndrome following malaria infection, 18 exhibited axonal degeneration, while three had the demyelinating variety. The majority of cases presented with a combination of sensory and motor nerve involvement. Encouragingly, the prognosis was favorable, with a 70% recovery rate.

Conclusion:

Our study highlights a significant association between Guillain-Barré Syndrome and post-malaria complications, with a overall positive prognosis.