# Miller Fisher Syndrome as a Stroke Mimic: A Case Report

**Authors:** Anmol Multani, Miguel A Leon, Lorlelei Lee-Haynes, Edward J Durant

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.79997 · Cureus · 2025-03-03

## TL;DR

A case report describes a rare neurological condition mistaken for a stroke, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

## Contribution

The novelty lies in presenting a real-world case of Miller Fisher Syndrome mimicking a stroke, emphasizing diagnostic challenges and management strategies.

## Key findings

- The patient was initially suspected to have a stroke but was later diagnosed with Miller Fisher Syndrome.
- Early recognition and treatment with IVIg and plasmapheresis are critical for better outcomes in such cases.
- The case highlights the importance of clinical suspicion in diagnosing complex neurological disorders.

## Abstract

Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is a heterogeneous autoimmune disorder characterized by peripheral neuropathy, often triggered by preceding infections or vaccinations. It encompasses several clinical variants, including the rare Miller Fisher Syndrome (MFS), distinguished by ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and areflexia. Diagnosis is challenging due to varied presentations and potential overlap with other neurological conditions. We present a case of a 42-year-old male initially suspected to have a stroke when he presented with unilateral loss of sensation and dysarthria. He was later diagnosed with MFS after his condition progressed and he developed generalized weakness, ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and areflexia. Despite initial stability, his condition deteriorated, requiring intensive care. Early recognition and treatment, such as intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) and plasmapheresis, are critical for improving outcomes in GBS and its variants. This case underscores the importance of clinical suspicion and appropriate diagnostic strategies in managing these complex neurological disorders.

## Linked entities

- **Diseases:** Guillain-Barre syndrome (MONDO:0016218), Miller Fisher Syndrome (MONDO:0005851), stroke (MONDO:0005098)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** areflexia (MESH:D000071699), GBS (MESH:D020275), ophthalmoplegia (MESH:D009886), weakness (MESH:D018908), ataxia (MESH:D001259), neurological disorders (MESH:D009461), Stroke Mimic (MESH:D020521), autoimmune disorder (MESH:D001327), peripheral neuropathy (MESH:D010523), loss of sensation (MESH:D006987), dysarthria (MESH:D004401), infections (MESH:D007239), MFS (MESH:D019846)

## Full text

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## Figures

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## References

20 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11968072/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11968072