A Case of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder with Bilateral Facial Nerve Palsy

Key Points

• To report a case of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) with atypical symptoms such as bilateral facial nerve palsy.
• Described clinical features of a 46-year-old female patient
• Conducted MRI to assess spinal and brain abnormalities
• Tested for aquaporin-4 antibodies
• Applied steroid pulse therapy and immunoadsorption therapy to treat symptoms.
• Patient presented with bilateral facial nerve palsy and other symptoms after two weeks of difficulty swallowing.
• MRI revealed abnormal signals in cervical and thoracic spinal regions, as well as in brain areas.
• Positive for aquaporin-4 antibodies confirmed the diagnosis of NMOSD.
• Symptoms improved significantly following treatment.