Abstract
Abstract
Introduction. One of the most common forms among facial nerve neuropathies
is Bell's palsy (idiopathic facial neuropathy). The pathological process has an acute onset, more often the symptoms of the lesion develop on
one side with a tendency of progression within 48-72 hours. Data on risk
factors, pathogenetic mechanism of Bell's palsy development, drug therapy
and methods of surgical treatment are presented. Basic therapy with a short
course of valacyclovir or acyclovir and a stepwise reduction in the optimal
dose of prednisolone, initiated within three days of symptom onset, increases
the chances of complete recovery.
Purpose of this review. Аims to provide comprehensive information on Bell's
palsy, focusing on anatomy, aetiology, clinical features, diagnosis, clinical
implications and preferred approaches to therapy.
Materials and methods. The materials of the Web of Science Core Collection
database (Science Citation Index Explanded and Social Sciences Citation
Index) were used in this work, as they cover the most important sources in
sufficient quantity to obtain objective information. A comprehensive search
of the databases was conducted, limited to 2002-2021 and including only
original articles and reviews.Results and Conclusions. Having analysed the literature data for 20 years,
it was concluded that the majority of authors adhere to the pathogenesis of
Bell's palsy development associated with compression of the facial nerve in
the phalopian canal as a result of inflammatory oedema. The diagnosis of
idiopathic facial neuropathy is made by exclusion and requires careful history
taking and a thorough clinical examination. If provided by history or
risk factors, the patient should be investigated for Lyme disease, diabetes
mellitus and other conditions. Incomplete eyelid closure followed by dry
eye, dysphagia and slurred speech are common short-term complications.
Contractures and weakness of mimic muscles and hemispasm are not uncommon
long-term complications. Although most patients recover spontaneously,
treatment with a short course of valacyclovir or acyclovir and a
stepwise reduction in the optimal dose of prednisolone, started within three
days of symptom onset, is thought to increase the chances of complete recovery.