Which reflex finding is most consistent with Guillain-Barré syndrome on exam?

Which reflex finding is most consistent with Guillain-Barré syndrome on exam?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Areflexia
• C. Hyperreflexia
• D. Ataxia

Answer: (B)

Areflexia is the hallmark reflex finding in Guillain-Barré syndrome. This condition is a peripheral nerve disorder that damages the myelin and axons of motor and sensory nerves, disrupting the reflex arc. As the demyelination progresses, deep tendon reflexes diminish and often disappear, even when the patient’s mental status and sensory perception remain intact. Hyperreflexia would suggest an upper motor neuron issue, not a peripheral neuropathy like Guillain-Barré, and hypertension is not a reflex finding. Ataxia can occur with various neurological problems but does not describe the reflex response here. So the absence of deep tendon reflexes best fits the typical exam pattern in Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Areflexia is the hallmark reflex finding in Guillain-Barré syndrome. This condition is a peripheral nerve disorder that damages the myelin and axons of motor and sensory nerves, disrupting the reflex arc. As the demyelination progresses, deep tendon reflexes diminish and often disappear, even when the patient’s mental status and sensory perception remain intact. Hyperreflexia would suggest an upper motor neuron issue, not a peripheral neuropathy like Guillain-Barré, and hypertension is not a reflex finding. Ataxia can occur with various neurological problems but does not describe the reflex response here. So the absence of deep tendon reflexes best fits the typical exam pattern in Guillain-Barré syndrome.