Fundamental of Adult Facial Paralysis: Etiology, Diagnosis, and Medical Treatment

Adult facial paralysis is a prevalent and disabling disorder. Peripheral and central palsy differentiation is important to initiate a proper diagnostic approach and treatment. a. Preservation of forehead and eye strength should point to central facial palsy. Differential diagnosis of central palsy includes stroke and central nervous system lesions. Bell’s palsy is the most common cause of peripheral facial palsy. Lacrimation, sense of taste, and hyperacusis point to specific anatomic localizations and help identify possible lesions. House-Brackmann scoring is a clinical score used for evaluation and treatment decisions. Treatment depends on whether identifying proper etiology.