Prevalence of herpes zoster virus reactivation in patients diagnosed with Bell's palsy

Objective Herpes zoster virus can cause inflammatory neuropathy of the facial nerve. However, studies evaluating the prevalence of this agent in peripheral facial palsy are heterogeneous regarding sample group selection, laboratory analysis method and variables studied. In addition, there are a lack of epidemiological data in the Brazilian population on this serological phenomenon in peripheral facial palsy. This study estimated herpes zoster reactivation prevalence in serological samples through chemiluminescence immunoassay for quantitative determination of specific antibodies directed against the virus. Methods This cross-sectional study sought to determine the prevalence of viral reactivation by herpes zoster in subjects with idiopathic peripheral facial palsy through analysis of serological samples over a year. Results Forty-seven patients (32 females and 15 males) participated. Severe paralysis was more common in older patients (p = 0.017). Facial pain (p = 0.02) and vertigo (p = 0.001) were related to a worse evolution of facial palsy. The rate of serological reactivation of the virus was 12.76 per cent. Conclusion The rate of serological reactivation of herpes virus in idiopathic peripheral facial palsy in our population is similar to foreign literature data, suggesting similar aetiological mechanisms in the genesis of this morbidity.