PERIPHERAL FACIAL PARALYSIS AS A MANIFESTATION OF HIV INFECTION: A REPORT OF THREE CASES

Abstract

Three cases of infranuclear facial nerve palsy associated with infection by the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 are reported. All were previously asymptomatic and had no other symptom suggestive of HIV infection. Two patients had typical Bells palsy while one had a facial diplegia. CD4 cell counts were above 100 cells/mm3 in all cases. A review of the literature confirmed that peripheral facial nerve palsy could occur at any stage of HIV infection and in various clinical contexts. It is suggested that adult patients presenting with peripheral facial paralysis should be counseled, and screened for HIV Infection.


Key words: Peripheral facial paralysis, HIV


(Annals Af Med: 2002 1(1): 28-30)