Anti-GT1a IgG antibodies in a child with severe Guillain-Barré syndrome.

This report describes a male, age 8 years 10 months, with severe Guillain-Barré syndrome after Campylobacter jejuni infection. The patient developed fulminant muscle weakness, external ophthalmoplegia, bulbar palsy, and respiratory distress. A high level of serum monospecific anti-GT1a immunoglobulin G antibody was detected. He was treated with intravenous immunoglobulins and artificial ventilation. Two years after the onset, the patient still suffered from residual leg weakness and foot drop. After 3 years and clinical recovery, the antibody was no longer detectable. This report presents the first case in childhood suggesting an association between a severe Guillain-Barré syndrome after C. jejuni enteritis with monospecific anti-GT1a immunoglobulin G antibody.