Affiliations: Department of Physical Medicine &
Rehabilitation, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA | Center for Movement Disorders &
Neurorestoration, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL,
USA | Department of Radiology, University of Kentucky,
Lexington, KY, USA
Note: [] Corresponding author: Radha Korupolu, Department of Physical
Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.
E-mail: rkorupolu@uky.edu
Abstract: A 5-year old female presented with acute tetraparesis and areflexia.
Initial imaging and cerebrospinal fluid analysis were suggestive of acute
disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM). Minimal clinical response with
intravenous steroids prompted further work up. Limited nerve conduction studies
suggested possible acute motor-sensory axonal neuropathy, a rare variant of
Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). Repeat imaging was compatible with
polyradiculopathy indicating concomitance of ADEM and GBS. The patient suffered
severe motor deficits and neuropathic pain. Slow but significant functional
recovery was noted after intensive inpatient rehabilitation followed by
continued rehabilitation via home health services.
