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[Herpes zoster ophthalmicus with contralateral hemiplegia]
Anales De Medicina Interna (Madrid, Spain : 1984)
|December 1, 1989
Summary
A rare case of zoster ophthalmicus linked to contralateral hemiplegia in a non-immunosuppressed patient is detailed. The study highlights vasculitis and infarction, suggesting acyclovir as a potential treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Zoster ophthalmicus, a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus in the ophthalmic nerve, can lead to serious neurological complications.
- Contralateral hemiplegia is an uncommon but severe manifestation, necessitating prompt diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old non-immunosuppressed patient presented with zoster ophthalmicus and contralateral hemiplegia.
- Cranial computed tomography (CT) revealed an infarction in the left caudate nucleus.
- Cerebral angiography demonstrated signs indicative of vasculitis.
Findings:
- The clinical presentation suggests a direct link between zoster ophthalmicus and cerebrovascular events.
- Evidence of vasculitis and subsequent infarction in the basal ganglia (caudate nucleus) was observed.
- The findings underscore the potential for viral reactivation to trigger inflammatory and ischemic neurological processes.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering neurological complications in zoster ophthalmicus, even in non-immunosuppressed individuals.
- Early diagnosis of vasculitis and infarction is crucial for effective treatment.
- The study suggests that antiviral therapy, such as acyclovir, may offer therapeutic benefits in managing such complex cases.