Definition: A variant of the GUILLAIN-BARRE SYNDROME characterized by the acute onset of oculomotor dysfunction, ataxia, and loss of deep tendon reflexes with relative sparing of strength in the extremities and trunk. The ataxia is produced by peripheral sensory nerve dysfunction and not by cerebellar injury. Facial weakness and sensory loss may also occur. The process is mediated by autoantibodies directed against a component of myelin found in peripheral nerves. (Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p1313; Neurology 1987 Sep;37(9):1493-8)
X ref FISHER SYNDROME: do not confuse with the Fisher one-and-a-half syndrome, an eye movement disorder caused by a brain stem lesion
Other names Syndrome, Miller-Fisher; Syndrome, Miller Fisher; Syndrome, Fisher; Miller-Fisher Syndrome; Miller Fisher Variant of Guillain Barre Syndrome; Guillain-Barre Syndrome, Miller Fisher Variant; Ophthalmoplegia, Ataxia and Areflexia Syndrome; Guillain Barre Syndrome, Miller Fisher Variant; Fisher Syndrome