Intra-aural tick resulting in facial nerve paresis

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Neurology
• Parasitology

Background:

• Tick infestations in the ear canal are uncommon but can cause significant patient distress.
• Facial nerve involvement secondary to ear canal pathology is a recognized, though infrequent, clinical presentation.

Observation:

• A case report details a woman experiencing left facial weakness.
• The weakness was directly attributed to a tick lodged within her external auditory canal.

Findings:

• The presence of an arthropod, specifically a tick, in the external auditory canal can precipitate neurological symptoms.
• This case demonstrates a direct correlation between an ear tick and unilateral facial nerve dysfunction.

Implications:

• Clinicians in otorhinolaryngology should consider tick infestation as a potential cause of facial paralysis.
• Prompt diagnosis and removal of ear canal ticks are crucial to prevent or resolve neurological complications.