[Treatment of idiopathic peripheral facial nerve paralysis (Bell's palsy)]

Ugeskr Laeger. 2013 Jan 28;175(5):275-8.
[Article in Danish]

Abstract

Bell's palsy is defined as an idiopathic peripheral facial nerve paralysis of sudden onset. It affects 11-40 persons per 100,000 per annum. Many patients recover without intervention; however, up to 30% have poor recovery of facial muscle control and experience facial disfigurement. The aim of this study was to make an overview of which pharmacological treatments have been used to improve outcomes. The available evidence from randomized controlled trials shows significant benefit from treating Bell's palsy with corticosteroids but shows no benefit from antivirals.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use*
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bell Palsy / complications
  • Bell Palsy / drug therapy*
  • Bell Palsy / pathology
  • Facial Paralysis / pathology
  • Humans
  • Prednisolone / therapeutic use*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Antiviral Agents
  • Prednisolone