Parvovirus B19-Induced Lower Motor Neuron Facial Nerve Palsy and Cutaneous Small-Vessel Vasculitis: A Case Report

Parvovirus B19, commonly associated with erythema infectiosum in children, can also present with various clinical manifestations in adults, including arthropathy, myocarditis, vasculitis, and neurological complications. This case report describes a 39-year-old male who presented with fever, rash, and polyarthralgia, followed by the sudden onset of left-sided facial weakness and slurred speech. Clinical examination revealed lower motor neuron facial nerve palsy and signs consistent with cutaneous small-vessel vasculitis. Extensive laboratory investigations confirmed the presence of parvovirus B19 DNA, while tests for other common viral infections and autoimmune markers were negative. The patient was treated with oral prednisolone, resulting in significant improvement in his symptoms over the course of one month. This case highlights the rare but important association between parvovirus B19 infection and both neurological and dermatological manifestations. It underscores the need for healthcare providers to consider viral etiologies in the differential diagnosis of facial nerve palsy and vasculitis, particularly when presented with concurrent symptoms of systemic infection. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for improving patient outcomes in such atypical presentations. This report adds to the growing body of literature on the diverse clinical manifestations of parvovirus B19, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and treating these rare complications promptly.