Lower Motor Neuron Facial Nerve Paralysis Following Recombinant Hepatitis B Vaccine Administration: A Case Report and Literature Review

The Hepatitis B vaccine's safety profile is considered safe, but sometimes neurological complications, like Bell's palsy (acute peripheral facial neuropathy), can occur after its administration. A 35-year-old female doctor experienced left-sided facial weakness and paralysis six days after getting the Hepatitis B vaccine. On examination, she had lower motor neuron facial nerve palsy. After excluding other causes, a diagnosis of Bell's palsy was made following Hepatitis B vaccine. She was treated with corticosteroids, antiviral medication, and physiotherapy, which led to a complete resolution over four weeks. Bell's palsy is still an uncommon potential side effect even though the advantages of the Hepatitis B vaccination exceed the risks. Further investigation is necessary to prove a conclusive link between the vaccine and its neurological side effects.