Munchausen Syndrome Presented as Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A Case Report and Literature Review

• Published in: Curēus (Palo Alto, CA) CA), 2025-01, Vol.17 (1), p.e77057
• Main Authors: Paulino Ferreira, Luís, Alves, Janice, Marta, Joana, Bonifácio, Gonçalo V, Militão, Andre
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Emergency Medicine; Neurology; Psychiatry
• ISSN: 2168-8184; 2168-8184
• DOI: 10.7759/cureus.77057

Munchausen syndrome (MS), a complex form of factitious disorder (FD), presents significant diagnostic and management challenges in emergency and hospital settings. Patients deliberately fabricate or induce symptoms to gain medical attention, often leading to unnecessary interventions, resource misallocation, and iatrogenic harm. This study highlights the diagnostic complexity and the need for multidisciplinary management of Munchausen syndrome through a detailed case report and literature review. A 30-year-old woman presented with neurological symptoms mimicking Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), including quadriplegia and sensory deficits. Inconsistencies during physical examination and falsified imaging reports prompted further investigation, uncovering a history of fabricated symptoms and pathological lying. The psychiatric evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of Munchausen syndrome. Differentiating Munchausen syndrome from malingering, conversion disorder, and somatic symptom disorders requires meticulous evaluation and interdepartmental collaboration. Unlike malingering, Munchausen syndrome lacks external incentives, with psychological factors such as trauma and personality disorders playing a central role. Early recognition is essential to prevent unnecessary procedures, reduce costs, and avoid prolonged hospitalizations. This case underscores the need for clinical vigilance and a systematic approach to diagnosis. A multidisciplinary strategy involving psychiatry and other specialties is vital for effective management and improved patient outcomes.