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Bells Palsy
Neurological
Question | Answer |
---|---|
What is an acute, complete or partial paralysis of the peripheral facial nerve | Bells Palsy |
What are some proposed etiologies for Bells Palsy? | 1. Metabolic 2. Genetic 3. Autoimmune 4. Vascular 5. Entrapment 6. Infections |
Name some symptoms of Bells Palsy. | 1. facial weakness of upper and lower facial musculature (usually unilateral) 2. subjective facial numbness 3. postauricular pain 4. abnormal lacrimination |
Name some clinical findings of Bells Palsy. | 1. smooth forehead(loss of wrinkles) 2. flattened nasolabial fold 3. asymmetric smile 4. paresis=progressive 7-10 days 5. diminished corneal reflex 6. weakness of the orbicularis oris and orbicularis oculi 7. remainder of neurologic exam is normal |
Name some diagnostic considerations for Bells Palsy. | Labs including CBC, Sed Rate, TH, electrolytes, glucose. Lyme titer MRI Nerve Conduction Study |
What are some differential diagnoses for Bells Palsy? | CVA Trauma Infection - OM, mastoiditis Herpes Zoster Neoplasms HIV |
What is the treatment for Bells Palsy? | Anti-virals: acyclovir Corticosteroids Supportive care Reassurance - most patients recover within 6-12 weeks follow closely for first few weeks. |