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[Cephalic tetanus revealed by peripheral facial palsy]
R Hassani1, A Herkani, H Nouri
1Service d'oto-rhino-laryngologie, CHU Mohammed-VI, Marrakech, Morocco. redouanehassani@hotmail.com
Revue De Stomatologie Et De Chirurgie Maxillo-Faciale
|September 20, 2011
Summary
Cephalic tetanus, a rare localized tetanus form, can manifest as peripheral facial palsy, sometimes preceding trismus. Early recognition is key for difficult diagnoses.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Cephalic tetanus is an uncommon manifestation of localized tetanus, accounting for 1-3% of cases.
- It is an exceptionally rare cause of peripheral facial palsy, posing diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- This report details a case of cephalic tetanus.
- The initial symptoms included peripheral facial palsy and trismus.
Findings:
- Peripheral facial palsy can be an early, and sometimes the sole, presenting symptom of cephalic tetanus.
- The onset of facial palsy may occur before trismus, complicating early diagnosis.
Implications:
- Recognizing peripheral facial palsy as a potential early sign of cephalic tetanus is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
- This case highlights the importance of considering rare neurological presentations of tetanus, even in the absence of typical symptoms.
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