Varicella zoster virus infection presenting as isolated diplopia: a case report

BMC Infect Dis. 2013 Mar 15:13:138. doi: 10.1186/1471-2334-13-138.

Abstract

Background: Involvement of trochlear nerve during Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) Infection has been rarely described, and always in association with skin rash.

Case presentation: We describe the case of a patient with VZV infection presenting as isolated diplopia due to fourth cranial nerve palsy. The diagnosis has been obtained through the application of a standardized molecular diagnostic panel, and diplopia resolved after specific antiviral and corticosteroid therapy.

Conclusion: This case evidences that clinicians should be aware of atypical VZV infection, even in the absence of the typical skin rash.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Diplopia / diagnosis*
  • Herpes Zoster / diagnosis*
  • Herpes Zoster / drug therapy
  • Herpesvirus 3, Human / genetics
  • Herpesvirus 3, Human / isolation & purification*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Molecular Diagnostic Techniques
  • Trochlear Nerve Diseases / diagnosis*

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Antiviral Agents