Pathology: Palsy of CN VII
Aetiology: Commonest cause of lower motor neuron facial palsy
Idiopathic – possibly links to Herpes Simplex 1 Virus
Symptoms: Aching pain below mastoid, weakness of one side of the face, speech difficulties and drooling from one side of mouth
Signs: Weakness of one side of the face usually including forehead
Investigations: Clinical Diagnosis: Based on exclusion of stroke and other neurological pathology
Treatment: Medical: High dose oral prednisolone, eye lubrication and acyclovir
Complications: Corneal ulceration, facial weakness, speech problems, contractures
Prognosis: Excellent prognosis
Figure 6.3 Bell’s palsy
