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Published on: September 20, 2018
Neurobrucellosis developing unilateral oculomotor nerve paralysis
Sedat Işıkay1, Kutluhan Yılmaz, Akgün Ölmez
1Department of Pediatric Neurology, Gaziantep University Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep, Turkey. dr.sedatisikay@mynet.com
Abstract:
Brucellosis is a zoonotic infectious disease that is common around the world. Its clinical course demonstrates great diversity as it can affect all organs and systems. However, the central nervous system is rarely affected in the pediatric population. Neurobrucellosis is most frequently observed with meningitis and has numerous complications, including meningocephalitis, myelitis, cranial nerve paralyses, radiculopathy, and neuropathy. Neurobrucellosis affects the second, third, sixth, seventh, and eighth cranial nerves. Involvement of the oculomotor nerves is a very rare complication in neurobrucellosis although several adult cases have been reported. In this article, we present the case of a 9-year-old girl who developed unilateral nerve paralysis as a secondary complication of neurobrucellosis and recovered without sequel after treatment. This case is notable because it is a very rare, the first within the pediatric population. Our article emphasizes that neurobrucellosis should be considered among the distinguishing diagnoses in every case that is admitted for nerve paralysis in regions where Brucella infection is endemic.
Insights
Neurobrucellosis, a rare central nervous system complication of Brucellosis, can cause nerve paralysis in children. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for recovery, as highlighted by a unique pediatric case report.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Brucellosis is a global zoonotic disease with diverse clinical manifestations.
- Central nervous system involvement (Neurobrucellosis) is rare in children, typically presenting as meningitis.
- Oculomotor nerve involvement is an exceptionally rare complication of Neurobrucellosis.
Observation:
- A 9-year-old girl presented with unilateral nerve paralysis secondary to Neurobrucellosis.
- This case represents the first reported instance of oculomotor nerve paralysis in a pediatric patient with Neurobrucellosis.
- The patient experienced a full recovery without lasting effects following treatment.
Findings:
- Neurobrucellosis can manifest with varied neurological deficits, including cranial nerve palsies.
- Oculomotor nerve paralysis, though rare, is a potential complication of Neurobrucellosis.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antimicrobial therapy are essential for favorable outcomes.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering Neurobrucellosis in pediatric patients presenting with nerve paralysis, especially in endemic areas.
- Underscores the need for increased awareness among clinicians regarding rare neurological presentations of Brucellosis in children.
- Contributes to the limited literature on pediatric Neurobrucellosis, particularly focusing on cranial nerve involvement.
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