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Published on: March 1, 2015
Laryngeal zoster with multiple cranial nerve palsies
Paul Van Den Bossche1, Karolien Van Den Bossche, Hilde Vanpoucke
1Department of Internal Medicine, H Hartziekenhuis Roeselare Menen vzw, Rijselse straat, 71, 8930 Menen, Belgium. paul-vandenbossche@skynet.be
Summary
A rare case of herpes zoster affecting the larynx and cranial nerves in an immunocompetent patient is detailed. Prompt diagnosis and treatment led to a full recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Herpes zoster, a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, typically affects the skin but can involve cranial nerves.
- Laryngeal involvement by herpes zoster is exceptionally rare, particularly in immunocompetent individuals.
Observation:
- A young, immunocompetent patient presented with left hemilaryngeal herpes zoster.
- Neuropathy of the ipsilateral lower cranial nerves (IX, X, XI) with sensory and motor deficits was observed.
- Mucosal lesions in the larynx were identified during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.
Findings:
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) analysis of erosional exudate confirmed the diagnosis of herpes zoster.
- The patient received antiviral therapy and corticosteroids.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for rare neurological and otolaryngological manifestations of herpes zoster.
- Early diagnosis and combined antiviral and corticosteroid treatment may lead to favorable outcomes.
- Further research into the pathogenesis and management of cranial nerve zoster is warranted.
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