Guillain-Barré Syndrome Following Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Literature Review

Aim This systematic review aims to characterize the clinical features, associated micronutrient deficiencies, and outcomes of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) following bariatric surgery, and to examine the potential mechanisms linking bariatric procedures to GBS development. Methods We conducted a systematic literature review of the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases to identify adult GBS cases in patients who had undergone bariatric surgery, published between January 2002 and January 2023. The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and complemented by data from our institutional bariatric surgery registry. Results 35 adult patients with GBS were identified after bariatric surgery, including 2 cases from our hospital registry. A literature review revealed 33 published cases, primarily following sleeve gastrectomy. Neurological deficits included motor weakness, sensory deficits, cranial nerve dysfunction, and autonomic dysfunction. Significant deficiencies in vitamins B1, B6, B12, and E were noted. Intravenous immunoglobulin was administered to 54.3% of patients. Complete recovery was observed in 45.7% of patients. Conclusion This review identifies an association rather than a causal relationship between bariatric surgery and GBS. Nutritional deficiencies and immune dysregulation following surgery may act as contributing factors in susceptible individuals; however, a direct causal link remains unestablished. Clinicians should maintain heightened awareness of this complication and ensure timely neurological assessment in bariatric surgery patients presenting with new neurological symptoms.