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Polyarteritis nodosa presenting as sixth nerve palsy: a case report
João Mendes1, Francisco Mendes2, Ana Filipa Salvado1
1Hospital do Espírito Santo de Évora, Évora, Portugal.
Frontiers in Neurology
|May 20, 2026
Summary
Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) rarely causes cranial nerve issues. This case shows PAN presenting with isolated sixth nerve palsy and orbital apex syndrome, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a rare systemic necrotizing vasculitis of medium-sized vessels.
- Cranial nerve involvement in PAN is exceptionally rare, occurring in less than 2% of patients.
- Peripheral neuropathy is more common, seen in 50-75% of PAN patients.
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