Facial nerve disorder that controls muscle movement of the face, causing muscle weakness or paralysis.
It may be secondary to an injury or of unknown origin.
Its symptoms appear rapidly, leading to weakness on the forehead, eyelids or mouth and inability to close the eye on the affected side within a few hours.
Diagnosis based on the review of the patient's clinical history and a physical examination. They study can be supported by an electromyogram. Imaging tests will also be performed to ascertain whether the facial palsy is due to compression of the nerve by a specific injury.
Treatment consists of eliminating the cause, if one is found. If the cause of the paralysis is unknown, corticosteroids and antiviral treatment will be administered. The paralysis may abate to a greater or lesser degree during the first six months.
- Michael Ronthal, MD. Bell's palsy: Pathogenesis, clinical features, and diagnosis in adults UpToDate, Febrero 2015
- Michael Ronthal. Bell's palsy: Treatment and prognosis in adults. UpToDate, Agosto 2016
- Gronseth GS.Evidence-based guideline update: steroids and antivirals for Bell palsy: report of the Guideline Development Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology. Neurology 2012; 79:2209.
- Baugh RF. Clinical practice guideline: Bell's palsy. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2013; 149:S1.
- M. Flint Beal. Neuralgia del trigémino, parálisis de Bell y otros trastornos de pares craneales.Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna, 19e. Capítulo 455.
