Thoracic Endodermal Sinus Tumor with Root Compression Mimicking Guillain–Barre Syndrome in Clinical Presentation, CSF Studies, and EMG/NCV Findings

Abstract

A 2-year-old boy who presented with clinical, cerebrospinal fluid, and electrophysiological findings consistent with Guillain–Barre syndrome (GBS) was found to have a thoracic spinal cord mass due to a yolk sac tumor. On examination, he had an absent anal wink and flaccid anal ring which is atypical for GBS. This case demonstrates the need for a thorough physical examination on presentation of a child with a clinical and laboratory presentation of GBS and highlights the importance of prompt imaging studies when clinical suspicion arises because of atypical clinical signs, such as absent anal wink or low rectal tone.

Keywords

Guillain–Barre syndrome - endodermal sinus tumor - yolk sac tumor - cerebrospinal fluid - electromyography/nerve conduction velocity - Langerhans cell histiocytosis

Authors' Contributions

G.B. authored the first draft of the manuscript and contributed to the literature review of the article. G.N.M., Y.B., M.C., and E.G.S. participated in the care of the patient and contributed to the literature review and text of the article.

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