Lyme Neuroborreliosis Presenting as Multiple Cranial Neuropathies

ABSTRACT

Neuroborreliosis can manifest with cranial nerve (CN) palsies, commonly CN VII. Rarely have isolated or multiple palsies been reported. We describe a case of a young female from a Lyme endemic region who presented with bilateral CN VI palsies and a dilated right pupil, possibly a partial CN III palsy. She later developed CN VII palsy and bilateral enhancement of multiple cranial nerves on neuroimaging. She was diagnosed with Lyme disease by serological testing, with gradual improvement on antibiotics. Our case illustrates that neuroborreliosis can present as any or multiple CN palsies, and should be considered particularly in endemic areas.

KEYWORDS:

• Lyme disease
• cranial neuropathy
• cranial nerve palsy
• neuroborreliosis

Declaration of interest statement

The authors report no conflict of interest.