Complications of measles may affect both the central and peripheral nervous systems.1,2 However, to our knowledge, isolated facial palsy has not been described. The following report describes a case of facial paresis occurring early in the course of rubeola uncomplicated by otitis media.
Report of a Case.—An 18-month-old girl was seen in the emergency room on Sept 12, 1973. Three days previously she developed a temperature of 38.3 C (101.0 F). The following day irritability, drowsiness, and facial asymmetry were noted by her mother. Facial weakness appeared to progress during the next 24 hours, and the patient also developed a rash of the face and trunk. A physician began oral treatment with penicillin the day before she came to the hospital. She had not been vaccinated against measles.
Physical examination showed a temperature of 39.4 C (103.0 F). She had facial asymmetry and a morbilliform eruption. Numerous Koplik