Case Report: A Typical Lyme Disease With Uncommon Neurologic Presentation

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Lyme disease is a prevalent tick-borne illness caused by Borrelia burgdorferi.
• Facial nerve palsy (seventh cranial nerve palsy) is a known neurological complication of Lyme disease.
• Most cases of Lyme-related facial palsy are unilateral.

Observation:

• This report describes a rare case of bilateral facial palsy in a patient with Lyme disease.
• The patient's condition was confirmed to be caused by Borrelia burgdorferi infection.
• A review and comparison of eleven previously reported cases of Lyme disease with bilateral facial palsy were conducted.

Findings:

• Bilateral facial palsy is an uncommon but possible manifestation of Lyme disease.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for patients with Lyme disease and facial nerve palsy.
• Comparing this case with existing literature provides insights into the presentation and outcomes of this rare condition.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering Lyme disease in the differential diagnosis of bilateral facial palsy, even in endemic areas.
• Emphasizes the need for prompt treatment with antibiotics to prevent long-term neurological sequelae.
• Contributes to the understanding of the spectrum of neurological manifestations of Lyme disease.