Jugular Foramen Syndrome Caused by Varicella Zoster Virus Infection

Jugular foramen syndrome (JFS) is a lower cranial neuropathy syndrome characterized by dysphonia and dysphagia. The syndrome is caused by dysfunction of the glossopharyngeal, vagus, and spinal accessory nerves at the level of the pars nervosa and pars vascularis within the jugular foramen. There are numerous etiologies for JFS, including malignancy, trauma, vascular, and infection. Here, we present the case of a healthy adult man who developed JFS secondary to an atypical presentation of Varicella Zoster meningitis, and was promptly diagnosed and treated with rapid symptom resolution. We diagnosed the patient using specialized skull-based imaging which detailed the jugular foramen, as well as CSF analysis. This case highlights the clinical value of detailed structural evaluation, consideration for infection in the absence of systemic symptoms, and favorable outcomes following early identification and treatment.

Automated summary

Jugular foramen syndrome is a lower cranial neuropathy syndrome characterized by dysphonia and dysphagia. This case presents a healthy adult man who developed the syndrome secondary to atypical presentation of Varicella Zoster meningitis and was promptly diagnosed and treated with successful symptom resolution. Detailed structural evaluation and consideration for infection are highlighted as important factors in early identification and treatment.