Bilateral Facial Palsy: An Atypical Neurological Complication of Varicella-Zoster Virus Reactivation

Bilateral facial palsy is an exceptionally rare condition, often indicative of systemic involvement or severe underlying pathology. This report details a case of bilateral facial nerve paralysis in a young adult following recent varicella infection, an association infrequently documented in clinical practice. The patient presented with classic signs of bilateral facial nerve dysfunction alongside a history of recent chickenpox infection. Diagnostic workup confirmed bilateral axonal neuropathy, suggesting a peripheral nerve etiology linked to varicella-zoster virus reactivation. This case highlights the need for vigilance in recognizing rare neurological manifestations of common infections to ensure timely diagnosis and appropriate management.