A variant of Guillian-Barre Syndrome

---

It began with a vague feeling of unease in my right hip which developed into a limp within a couple of days and having great difficulty with climbing stairs within a week.  It then began on the left hip and descended down both legs until a month later I was unable to walk at all.  I was then admitted to hospital and eventually a diagnosis of a variant of Guillian-Barre Syndrome was made from the results elevated protein in my spinal fluid.  I spent seven weeks in a rehabilitation centre with intensive daily physiotherapy, including hydrotherapy, but continued to get weaker although the paralysis never spread higher than my hips.  I was discharged due to my deterioration.  I continued with physiotherapy as an out-patient and eventually entered into a plateau phase about four months after the onset.  I began regaining movement and strength and am now, nine months after diagnosis, able to walk with assistance.  I had no noticeable viral or bacterial infection at any time before the onset, although I have had an unexplained problem with a couple of my joints which may also be autoimmune related.