Monoparesis secondary to herpes zoster

Abstract

We describe a 90-year-old woman with right upper limb monoparesis secondary to varicella zoster virus infection as a result of extensive inflammatory involvement of the entire brachial plexus at root level. To our knowledge, this is the first report of entire brachial plexus involvement in a living patient of such advanced age. Despite a delay in presentation and thus initiation of treatment, a favourable clinical response was observed.

Complete recovery from segmental zoster paresis confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging: A case report

“…Treatment of segmental zoster paresis, as in general HZ infection, is helpful when administered as a combination of antiviral drugs, glucocorticoids, neuraxial block, and physical therapy. Early administration of antiviral drugs is important to decrease the incidence of motor complications and degree of pain[ 14 , 15 ]. The early administration of glucocorticoids could decrease demyelination of the involved nerve segments and prevent degeneration of axons[ 16 ].…”