Nokea
A 30-year-old female presents with muscle weakness in the lower extremities and palpitations. Her symptoms have been progressively worse over the course of a 2 weeks. She reports to be in great health, but had a period of abdominal pain and diarrhea approximately 5 weeks ago. Her temperature is 98.9 deg F (37.2 deg C), blood pressure 117/82 mmHg, pulse is 102/min, and respirations are 16/min. On physical exam, there is 4-/5 muscle strength throughout the lower extremities. Bilateral patellar reflexes are 1+ and ankle reflexes are absent. Lumbar puncture was performed, and results are pending. Part 1: What is the most likely diagnosis?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The patient's presentation of progressive weakness, areflexia, and a history of recent gastrointestinal infection is classic for Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS). GBS is an autoimmune disorder that often follows an infection and leads to demyelination of peripheral nerves. Polymyositis and myasthenia gravis do not typically cause areflexia, and hypokalemia would present with generalized weakness rather than a ascending paralysis.