Guillain-Barré syndrome after bortezomib therapy in a child with
relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Abstract
A 12-year-old male being treated for a high-risk relapsed T-acute
lymphoblastic leukemia presented progressive weakness and numbness of
both legs after having received a chemotherapy regimen that included
bortezomib. Diagnosis of acute Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS)-like
inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy was made following clinical
examination, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, electrodiagnostic studies,
magnetic resonance imaging, and serum immunoglobulin antibodies to
anti-ganglioside. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment was
started, resulting in complete clinical recovery. Although in rare
cases, GBS after bortezomib therapy has been reported; this paper
suggests that GBS may occur when bortezomib is administered and
high‑dose IVIGs lead to a resolution of the symptoms.