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Published in: European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology 2/2021

01-02-2021 | Shingles | Miscellaneous

Cranial polyneuropathy caused by herpes zoster infection: a retrospective single-center analysis

Authors: Jure Pupić-Bakrač, Ana Pupić-Bakrač, Vedrana Terkeš, Ivan Baraka

Published in: European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology | Issue 2/2021

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Abstract

Purpose

Cranial polyneuropathy (CP) is a rare complication of herpes zoster (HZ) infection. This entity often produces situations of a diagnostic dilemma, as can be seen in a wide spectrum of clinical presentations. The aim of this study was to report the clinical characteristics, treatment, and outcomes of 11 patients from a single-institution experience.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of patients treated for HZ CP over a 12-year period was performed.

Results

The present study included 11 patients with CP caused by HZ infection—7 (63.63%) females, and 4 (36.36%) males. The mean age at presentation was 63 years (range, 38–85 years). Cranial nerve VII was affected in nine (81.82%) cases, CN VIII in six (54.55%) cases, CN V in five (45.45%) cases, CN III and IX in two (18.18%) cases, and CN VI and X in one (9.09%) case. The treatment of choice was acyclovir in all patients, while corticosteroids were administered in six (54.55%) patients. Complete CN recovery was observed in seven (63.63%) patients, while four (36.36%) patients suffered from permanent CN damage—two (18.18%) CN VII, one (9.09%) CN VII and VIII, and one (9.09%) CN VI.

Conclusion

Herpes zoster CP presents an interesting diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Successful management of these patients depends on a thorough knowledge of the anatomy and topodiagnostic of CNs. Early administration of antiviral agents is crucial in terms of responsiveness to treatment and expedite recovery.
Literature
Metadata
Title
Cranial polyneuropathy caused by herpes zoster infection: a retrospective single-center analysis
Authors
Jure Pupić-Bakrač
Ana Pupić-Bakrač
Vedrana Terkeš
Ivan Baraka
Publication date
01-02-2021
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology / Issue 2/2021
Print ISSN: 0937-4477
Electronic ISSN: 1434-4726
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00405-020-06279-y

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