A case of acute motor and sensory axonal neuropathy following hepatitis a infection

J Korean Med Sci. 2013 Dec;28(12):1839-41. doi: 10.3346/jkms.2013.28.12.1839. Epub 2013 Nov 26.

Abstract

Acute motor and sensory axonal neuropathy (AMSAN) are recently described subtypes of Guillain-Barre syndrome characterized by acute onset of distal weakness, loss of deep tendon reflexes, and sensory symptoms. A 21-yr-old male was transferred to our hospital due to respiration difficulties and progressive weakness. In laboratory findings, immunoglobulin M antibodies against hepatitis A were detected in blood and cerebrospinal fluid. The findings of motor nerve conduction studies showed markedly reduced amplitudes of compound muscle action potentials in bilateral peroneal, and posterior tibial nerves, without evidence of demyelination. Based on clinical features, laboratory findings, and electrophysiologic investigation, the patient was diagnosed the AMSAN following acute hepatitis A viral infection. The patient was treated with intravenous immunoglobulin and recovered slowly. Clinicians should consider this rare but a serious case of AMSAN following acute hepatitis A infection.

Keywords: Acute Motor and Sensory Axonal Neuropathy; Guillain-Barre Syndrome; Hepatitis A; Molecular Mimicry; Peripheral Nervous System Diseases.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Electromyography
  • Guillain-Barre Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Guillain-Barre Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Guillain-Barre Syndrome / etiology
  • Hepatitis A / complications
  • Hepatitis A / diagnosis*
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous