Mechanisms Underlying Co-Infection Between COVID-19 and Guillain-Barré Syndrome: Susceptibility, Disease Progression, and Clinical Impact – A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the complex synergistic interaction between Covid-19 and Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), exploring the clinical and epidemiological implications of this co-infection. It also seeks to evaluate the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges faced by co-infected patients and to discuss public health strategies. Methodology: It is a systematic review focused on understanding the main aspects of Covid-19 co-infection and Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). The research was guided by the question: 'What are the biological and immunological mechanisms underlying the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and GBS and how do they affect susceptibility, disease progression and clinical manifestations of patients?'. To find answers, we searched the PubMed database using four descriptors combined with the Boolean term "AND": Guillain-Barre Syndrome, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, and COVID-19 Vaccines. This resulted in 562 articles. 14 articles were selected for analysis. Results: The reviewed evidence shows a significant association between COVID-19 and the development of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), especially in older men. The pathogenesis suggests that the inflammatory response triggered by COVID-19 may contribute to the emergence of GBS. The infection aggravates respiratory complications in patients with GBS, increasing the need for early ventilation. Immunomodulatory therapies, such as intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), are effective and safe in the management of these patients Conclusion:The review highlights the importance of early diagnosis and close clinical monitoring to improve outcomes.