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[Isolated palsy of the hypoglossal nerve complicating infectious mononucleosis]

C Carra-Dallière1, R Mernes, R Juntas-Morales

  • 1Service de neurologie, hôpital Gui-de-Chauliac, CHU de Montpellier, 80, avenue Augustin-Fliche, 34295 Montpellier cedex 5, France. clarisse.dalliere@wanadoo.fr

Revue Neurologique
|April 26, 2011
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Infectious mononucleosis can rarely cause isolated hypoglossal nerve palsy. This case study highlights a rare neurological complication of Epstein-Barr virus infection, with spontaneous recovery of cranial nerve function.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Neurological complications from infectious mononucleosis are uncommon.
  • Reported neurological issues include meningitis, encephalitis, and peripheral neuropathy.
  • Isolated cranial nerve palsy is a particularly rare manifestation.

Observation:

  • A 16-year-old male presented with unilateral hypoglossal nerve palsy four weeks post-infectious mononucleosis.
  • Diagnostic workup including MRI and CSF analysis was unremarkable.
  • Positive IgM anti-VCA antibodies confirmed recent Epstein-Barr virus infection.

Findings:

  • The patient experienced isolated hypoglossal nerve palsy, affecting tongue movement.
  • Neurological examinations and imaging studies did not reveal other abnormalities.
  • Complete recovery of tongue function was observed within two months without specific treatment.

Implications:

  • This case adds to the limited literature on isolated hypoglossal nerve palsy secondary to infectious mononucleosis.
  • It underscores the diverse and rare neurological sequelae of Epstein-Barr virus.
  • The findings suggest a potential for spontaneous resolution of such cranial nerve palsies.

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