Peripheral facial palsy as a rare complication of primary varicella infection in a child: A case report

CANI, DENISA and Toci, Griselda and Kau, Silvana and Pasterma, Rozana (2025) Peripheral facial palsy as a rare complication of primary varicella infection in a child: A case report. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 26 (3). pp. 1594-1597. ISSN 2581-9615

Varicella, caused by the primary infection with varicella-zoster virus (VZV), is a common childhood illness that is usually self-limiting. However, rare complications such as neurological involvement can occur. Acute peripheral facial palsy is an uncommon manifestation during primary VZV infection. We present the case of a 12-year-old boy who developed left-sided peripheral facial nerve palsy during the course of varicella. The patient was treated with acyclovir, corticosteroids, and supportive care, and showed complete recovery within one month. This case highlights the importance of clinical vigilance for neurological complications during common viral infections and reinforces the value of timely antiviral treatment and vaccination in prevention.