Abstract Details

Title Bilateral Facial Weakness as Initial Presentation of Post COVID-19 Vaccination related Guillain Barré Syndrome

Topic Autoimmune Neurology

Presentation(s) P1 - Poster Session 1 (9:00 AM-5:00 PM)

Poster/Presentation
Number 052

Objective The COVID-19 vaccination has been shown to be effective at protecting against severe COVID-19 related symptoms and death. However, many people have reported side effects after receiving the vaccination. Majority of them are mild, nonspecific, and go away within a few days. A few of the side effects are serious. It is important for neurologists to be aware of fatal side effects for appropriate cares. We present an unusual presentation of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) post COVID-19 vaccine, bilateral facial nerve paralysis preceded by significant weakness in the lower extremities.

Background NA

Design/Methods NA

Results A 66-year-old male presented with right facial weakness which later progressed to bilateral facial paresis with difficulty in swallowing. Sixteen days prior, he received the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine. The patient also reported development of myalgia and high-grade fever two days after the vaccination. The brain MRI was negative for acute changes and subsequently, the patient developed bilateral lower extremity weakness. The lumbar MRI revealed evidence of diffuse enhancement and mild thickening of all the nerve roots of the cauda equina. A lumbar puncture was performed, and CSF analysis showed albuminocytologic dissociation. He was diagnosed with GBS, and responded to IV immunoglobuin infusions.

Conclusions GBS is a rare neurological disorder in which the immune system attacks nerves and can result in progressive muscle weakness, numbness, and pain. Adenovirus vector is listed as a rare side effect of COVID-19 vaccine. We highlight the importance of recognizing GBS as a potential side effect of the COVID-19 vaccination.

Authors/Disclosures
Khaled Gharaibeh, MD (ProMedica Neurosciences Center) PRESENTER	Dr. Gharaibeh has nothing to disclose.
Taehong Lim, MD (Ohio State University)	Dr. Lim has nothing to disclose.
Ajaz Sheikh, MD (ProMedica Neurosciences Center)	Dr. Sheikh has nothing to disclose.

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