Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 1, 2026

Single-stage Dynamic Reanimation of the Smile in Irreversible Facial Paralysis by Free Functional Muscle Transfer
Published on: March 1, 2015
Bilateral Facial Nerve Palsy in a Patient With Leptospirosis From Panama
Cristel M Rodriguez-Vargas1, Ana B Arauz2,1
1Infectious Diseases, Hospital Santo Tomas, Panama, PAN.
Abstract:
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic tropical disease with worldwide distribution caused by bacteria from the genus Leptospira. The clinical picture is assorted, from asymptomatic subclinical disease to more severe forms affecting several organs, including lungs, liver, and kidneys. Neurologic manifestations account for 10%-20% of the cases. The most common neurological presentation is aseptic meningitis, but other syndromes, such as cranial nerve palsies, and encephalitis, are also seen. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of this type of neurological presentation of leptospirosis in Panama. We present an unusual manifestation of leptospirosis in a 43-year-old man from Panama City who presented with constitutional symptoms and developed bilateral facial palsy and liver involvement during his hospitalization.
Insights
This case report details an unusual neurological presentation of leptospirosis, a tropical zoonotic disease. A Panamanian man developed bilateral facial palsy and liver issues, highlighting atypical symptoms of this infection.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- Leptospirosis is a widespread zoonotic disease caused by *Leptospira* bacteria.
- It presents with varied severity, impacting organs like the lungs, liver, and kidneys.
- Neurologic manifestations occur in 10%-20% of cases, commonly aseptic meningitis, but also cranial nerve palsies and encephalitis.
Related Concept Videos
Bacterial Phylum Spirochaetes
Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
Diphtheria
Arboviral Encephalitis
Encephalitis ll: Pathophysiology
Encephalitis l: Introduction

