Abstract
Background
Guillain–Barré Syndrome (GBS) is caused by immunoglobulin G (IgG) autoantibodies. Efgartigimod, a human IgG antibody Fc fragment that acts as a natural ligand for the FcRn, can increase IgG degradation, which thus may be a promising therapeutic drug for GBS.
Case presentation
The two patients presented with postinfectious and acute flaccid paralysis. On admission, they were bedridden. Nerve conduction studies indicated peripheral neuropathy. GBS was suspected and they are treated with two doses of efgartigimod (10 mg/kg) within 5 days. Their muscle strength improved gradually and 4 weeks after the initial dose, they could walk independently. Following the first dose, Patient 1 complaint of muscle soreness, which subsided the next morning. Patient 2 was intubated due to respiratory failure the day after the initial dose, and did not report other adverse effects.
Discussion
In GBS patients, two doses of efgartigimod (10 mg/kg) were effective in rapidly improving muscle strength, with a satisfactory safety profile. The findings suggest a potential role for efgartigimod in modifying the disease process in GBS patients.
Conclusion
Efgartigimod seems effective and safe in the treatment of GBS. This study indicates the potential role of efgartigimod as a novel treatment option for GBS. Well-designed clinical trials should be conducted.
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Data availability
The data underlying this article are available in the article and in its online supplementary material.
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This work was supported by the Shanxi Science and Technology Department under grant no. 20210302123245 and Health Commission of Shanxi Province under grant no.2019034.
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All authors contributed to the study conception and design. Wei Zhang and Huiqiu Zhang wrote the first draft of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the manuscript.
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Zhang, H., Ma, J., Feng, Y. et al. Efgartigimod in the treatment of Guillain–Barré syndrome. J Neurol 271, 3506–3511 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00415-024-12321-4
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00415-024-12321-4