Guillain-Barré Syndrome and Related Neuropathies Post-Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review of Clinical Cases and Outcomes

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#humans #guillain-barre-syndrome #bariatric-surgery #postoperative-complications #obesity-morbid

Guillain-Barré Syndrome and Related Neuropathies Post-Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review of Clinical Cases and Outcomes

Bidares et al., 2025 | Obes Surg | Systematic Review

Citation

Bidares Matin, Aziz Mahsa, ... Bidares Ramtin. Guillain-Barré Syndrome and Related Neuropathies Post-Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review of Clinical Cases and Outcomes. Obes Surg. 2025-Oct;35(10):4465-4481. doi:10.1007/s11695-025-08192-x

Abstract

Bariatric surgery is a widely used treatment for morbid obesity, but it can lead to neurological complications, including Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare immune-mediated polyneuropathy. The mechanisms underlying post-bariatric GBS remain unclear, and no comprehensive review has evaluated its incidence, risk factors, and outcomes. This systematic review synthesizes available clinical data to assess the relationship between bariatric surgery and GBS, focusing on its presentation, diagnosis, and management. A systematic literature search was conducted in Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus following PRISMA guidelines. Studies reporting GBS following bariatric surgery were included. Data extraction focused on demographics, clinical presentation, laboratory findings, treatment approaches, and outcomes. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tool. GBS cases were predominantly reported in female patients, with symptom onset occurring within weeks to months post-surgery. The most common clinical features included ascending motor weakness, sensory disturbances, hyporeflexia, and autonomic dysfunction. Laboratory findings showed elevated cerebrospinal fluid protein and abnormal nerve conduction studies. Patients were treated with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), plasmapheresis, and nutritional supplementation, particularly thiamine and vitamin B12. Recovery varied; some patients regained full function, while others experienced persistent neurological deficits or severe complications such as respiratory failure. GBS is a rare but serious post-operative complication of bariatric surgery, potentially linked to immune dysregulation and nutritional deficiencies. Early recognition and prompt intervention are critical. Further research is needed to clarify underlying mechanisms, optimize treatment, and improve preventive strategies.

Key Findings

Further research is needed to clarify underlying mechanisms, optimize treatment, and improve preventive strategies.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Humans
  • Guillain-Barre Syndrome
  • Bariatric Surgery
  • Postoperative Complications
  • Obesity, Morbid
  • Female
  • Male
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Risk Factors
  • Adult

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: thiamine

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09