A 60-year-old male presents with bilateral leg weakness progressing over 3 days, starting in the feet and ascending to the knees. He has absent ankle ...

Question

A 60-year-old male presents with bilateral leg weakness progressing over 3 days, starting in the feet and ascending to the knees. He has absent ankle reflexes and difficulty walking. He had a diarrhoeal illness 2 weeks ago. Sensation is relatively preserved. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Guillain-Barré syndrome - an ascending demyelinating polyneuropathy typically triggered by preceding infection; monitor closely for respiratory failure

Answer

Acute transverse myelitis

Answer

Multiple sclerosis relapse

Answer

Peripheral vascular disease

Answer

Cauda equina syndrome

uk-dipimc MCQ (SBA): Guillain-Barré Syndrome

A 60-year-old male presents with bilateral leg weakness progressing over 3 days, starting in the feet and ascending to the knees. He has absent ankle reflexes and difficulty walking. He had a diarrhoeal illness 2 weeks ago. Sensation is relatively preserved. What is the most likely diagnosis?