Evaluation of Factors Associated With Favorable Outcomes in Adults With Bell Palsy

Is There an Association between Bell Palsy in Pediatric Patients and COVID-19?

Introduction  Bell palsy (BP) is an acquired, idiopathic facial palsy linked to lower motor neuron malfunction of the seventh cranial nerve. Several studies have identified BP as one of the many neuropathies that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients have developed, while other studies disagree. Objective  To study if there is an association between BP in pediatric patients and COVID-19, and to examine the pattern of recovery in all pediatric cases of BP during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods  We performed a prospective cohort study on pediatric patients with acute onset unilateral facial weakness of unknown etiology (BP) during the pandemic period. All included patients were submitted to a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test through nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) at the time of the BP diagnosis. Results  No significant differences were found regarding COVID-19 infection and recovery from BP at the first, third, or sixth months of follow-up. According to the results, it seems that there is no association between COVID-19 infection and facial palsy; however, the patients infected with COVID-19 in the sample experienced a rapid, early recovery from BP. The mean incidence of BP in 5 years (2017-2021) was of 1.73/100 thousand individuals, with a statistically insignificant change throughout the years. Conclusion  We were not able to show any association between BP and COVID-19. The patients underwent follow-up for up to 6 months, and we studied their patterns of recovery from BP, which were like those observed before the pandemic.

Timing of Treatment Initiation and Effect on Facial Synkinesis Outcomes-A Retrospective Study

Background: While facial neuromuscular retraining and chemodenervation are effective treatments for facial synkinesis, it is unclear if clinical outcomes are affected by the timing or sequence of treatment initiation. Objective: To compare outcomes between patients with facial synkinesis based on timing of treatment initiation with facial neuromuscular retraining and/or chemodenervation as measured by the Sunnybrook Facial Grading System. Methods: Retrospective review of patients with facial synkinesis. Patient data recorded include demographics, clinical information, and Sunnybrook scores. t-Tests, analysis of variance, and logistic regression were used for analysis. Results: A total of 78 adult patients were included in our study (73% female; median age 50 years with a range of 18-78 years). Median patient follow-up was 16 months (range of 1-56 months). Patients were divided into three groups based on time between paralysis onset and treatment initiation: <12 months, 12-36 months, and >36 months. The use of facial neuromuscular retraining and chemodenervation improved Sunnybrook scores for all patients. The time between paralysis onset to treatment initiation was not associated with a difference in Sunnybrook scores. Conclusion: The duration of facial palsy prior to initiation of facial neuromuscular retraining and/or chemodenervation was not associated with a difference in synkinesis outcomes as determined by Sunnybrook scores.

Sex differences in perceived speech intelligibility in patients with facial nerve palsy

PURPOSE

Facial nerve palsy (FNP) affects physical and social function, including speech. There exists discrepancy between professional and patient perception of appearance following FNP; however, speech differences remain unknown. We aimed to compare ratings of speech intelligibility by different listeners.

METHOD

Patients were identified through the Sydney Facial Nerve Service. FNP related scoring was obtained using the Sunnybrook Facial Grading System, Sydney Facial Grading Score, Facial Disability Index, and Speech Handicap Index. Intelligibility was scored by a speech-language pathologist, member of the public, and patient using a standardised passage. FNP scoring and intelligibility were compared using interclass coefficients (ICC).

RESULT

Forty patients were recruited (females = 20). There was no difference in FNP scoring, nor between the frequency or types of phonemic errors. Observers' rating of intelligibility had an ICC of 0.807, compared with 0.266 and 0.344 for patients compared to the member of the public and speech-language pathologist respectively. Observers rated males and females intelligibility similar (p > 0.05), but females rated their intelligibility lower than males (74.5 ± 12.8 vs. 82.5 ± 8.4, p = 0.025).

CONCLUSION

Patients, particularly females, perceive their speech to be less intelligible than observers. Clinicians should be aware of this discrepancy, which does not correlate with physical function.

A Retrospective Study on the Gender Differences in Clinical Manifestations of Bell's Palsy

OBJECTIVES

Although many studies have assessed the clinical features and the factors affecting treatment outcomes of Bell's palsy, few have analysed differences between men and women. This study therefore evaluated whether the clinical features and treatment results, and the factors affecting them, differ between men and women with Bell's palsy.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 1708 patients (791 men and 917 women) who presented with facial palsy to the otolaryngology department between January 1986 and December 2022. Clinical features and treatment outcomes were compared in men and women diagnosed with Bell's palsy.

RESULTS

Age distribution, side affected by facial palsy, House-Brackmann (HB) Grade, underlying disease such as diabetes and hypertension, electroneuronography (ENoG) results, electromyography (EMG) results, and treatment methods did not differ significantly between men and women with Bell's palsy (p > 0.05 each). Factors significantly associated with better prognosis in men included milder initial facial palsy and better electromyography (EMG) results (p < 0.05). Factors significantly associated with better prognosis in women included younger age, milder initial facial palsy, and better EMG results (p < 0.05). Women had significantly better prognosis than men when treated with steroids within 3 days of the onset of paralysis (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Milder initial facial palsy and better EMG results were associated with better prognosis in both men and women with Bell's palsy. Younger age at onset and early stage treatment with steroids were associated with a higher recovery rate in women, but not in men.

Clinical and electrophysiological prognostic factors in predicting poor outcomes in patients with idiopathic facial nerve paralysis

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to verify whether one or more clinical and neurophysiological parameters could predict a poor prognosis in idiopathic facial paralysis.

METHODS

Seventy-three outpatients with unilateral idiopathic facial nerve paralysis who visited our hospital within 7 days of onset. All patients received treatment according to a standard therapy protocol and ocular care. Patients' baseline characteristics were assessed before initiating treatment, including demographic characteristics, facial nerve function assessment and previous medical history. House-Brackmann (H-B) grading system was performed at baseline and six months after the onset. Electroneurography (ENoG) and blink reflex tests were conducted 7-10 days after the onset of paralysis. Sunnybrook Facial Grading System (SFGS) was conducted at baseline, days 7-10 post-onset when the electrophysiological tests were performed, and one month after the onset.

RESULTS

According to the H-B grade at 6 months following the onset, 58 patients (79.5 %) had a good prognosis, while 15 patients (20.5 %) had a poor prognosis. The CMAP amplitudes in three facial muscles (frontalis, orbicularis oculi, and orbicularis oris) were decreased, and ENoG values were increased in the poor prognosis group compared with the good prognosis group (all p < 0.01). The results of the blink reflex study showed that the group with a poor prognosis had a longer R1 latency compared to the group with a good prognosis. Additionally, the group with a poor prognosis exhibited a higher rate of R1 absence on the affected side (both p < 0.01). The findings of conditional logistic regression indicated that the absence of R1 on the affected side, frontalis ENoG, orbicularis oculi ENoG, and orbicularis oris ENoG were predictive factors of a poor prognosis for facial nerve palsy. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves showed that the SFGS at 1 month after onset of 55 is considered a critical cutoff value for poor prognosis, with a sensitivity of 86.7 % and specificity of 91.4 %.

CONCLUSION

Electroneurography (ENoG) and blink reflex tests acquired within 7-10 days after the onset of paralysis are significant and highly valuable for predicting the prognosis of idiopathic facial nerve paralysis. Higher ENoG values of the muscles innervated by the facial nerve and the absence of R1 on the affected side of the blink reflex are predictive factors for a poor prognosis. The SFGS is a clinical tool that plays an important role in evaluating the prognosis of idiopathic facial paralysis, particularly one month after onset.

Analysis of factors associated with patients' global impression of change scores in inpatients with peripheral facial palsy: A retrospective study at a Korean Medicine Hospital

The incidence of peripheral facial palsy is on the rise, with psychological issues influencing quality of life due to visible symptoms. Consequently, patient-reported outcome measures are critical in assessing the disease burden and the treatment efficacy of peripheral facial palsy from patients' perspective. This study examines factors influencing patients' global impression of change (PGIC) scores, a type of patient-reported outcome measure, in hospitalized patients with peripheral facial palsy. This retrospective study analyzed the electronic medical records of 200 patients with peripheral facial palsy who were admitted to the Korean Medicine Hospital, Kyung Hee University Medical Center from May 1, 2022 to April 30, 2023. Impact of demographic, electrophysiological, intervention, and clinical factors on PGIC scores were evaluated. Descriptive statistics showed that the length of hospitalization (P = .020), time from disease onset to hospitalization (P = .022), lacrimal disorders (P = .002), House-Brackmann (HB) grade evaluated at admission (P = .016) and at discharge (P < .001), improvement in HB-grade from admission to discharge (P = .002), and total facial disability index (FDI) score at discharge (P < .001) were significantly associated with PGIC scores. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, HB-grade at admission (OR: 13.89, 95% CI: 2.18-113.60), length of stay (OR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.07-0.92), time from disease onset to hospitalization (OR: 5.55, 95% CI: 1.36-24. 77), tear-related symptoms (OR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.17-0.96), total FDI score (OR: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.20-0.98), and greater improvement in HB-grade at discharge compared to admission (OR: 0.08, 95% CI: 0.02-0.31) were significantly associated with PGIC scores. Patients with milder initial disease severity, hospitalization period exceeding 7 days, shorter time from disease onset to hospitalization, improvement of lacrimal symptoms, total FDI score, and HB-grade between admission and discharge experienced more significant subjective improvement in peripheral facial palsy.

Novel evaluation method for facial nerve palsy using 3D facial recognition system in iPhone

OBJECTIVE

While subjective methods like the Yanagihara system and the House-Brackmann system are standard in evaluating facial paralysis, they are limited by intra- and inter-observer variability. Meanwhile, quantitative objective methods such as electroneurography and electromyography are time-consuming. Our aim was to introduce a swift, objective, and quantitative method for evaluating facial movements.

METHODS

We developed an application software (app) that utilizes the facial recognition functionality of the iPhone (Apple Inc., Cupertino, USA) for facial movement evaluation. This app leverages the phone's front camera, infrared radiation, and infrared camera to provide detailed three-dimensional facial topology. It quantitatively compares left and right facial movements by region and displays the movement ratio of the affected side to the opposite side. Evaluations using the app were conducted on both normal and facial palsy subjects and were compared with conventional methods.

RESULTS

Our app provided an intuitive user experience, completing evaluations in under a minute, and thus proving practical for regular use. Its evaluation scores correlated highly with the Yanagihara system, the House-Brackmann system, and electromyography. Furthermore, the app outperformed conventional methods in assessing detailed facial movements.

CONCLUSION

Our novel iPhone app offers a valuable tool for the comprehensive and efficient evaluation of facial palsy.

Development of the Korean Medicine Core Outcome Set for Facial Palsy: herbal medicine treatment of patients with facial palsy in primary clinics

Introduction

Facial palsy (FP) significantly affects the quality of life of patients and poses a treatment challenge in primary healthcare settings. This study aimed to develop a Korean medicine (KM) core outcome set (COS) for FP, with a focus on evaluating the effectiveness of herbal medicine (HM) treatments in KM primary clinics.

Methods

Outcomes and effect modifiers related to FP treatments were initially identified through related review articles. Subsequently, experts in the field took part in three rounds of modified Delphi consensus exercises to refine and prioritize these outcomes and effect modifiers. Additionally, primary KM clinicians were involved in a Delphi consensus round to assess the suitability and feasibility of the proposed COS in real-world clinical settings.

Results

The initial review of related literature identified 44 relevant studies, resulting in an initial selection of 23 outcomes and 10 effect modifiers. The expert consensus process refined these to 8 key outcomes and 6 effect modifiers, which established the foundation of the COS-FP-KM. Subsequently, primary KM clinicians confirmed the practicality and applicability of the COS, endorsing its suitability for use in KM primary clinics.

Conclusion

The COS-FP-KM establishes a standardized approach for assessing HM treatment effectiveness in FP patients in KM primary clinics. The COS-FP-KM encourages consistent outcome reporting and enhances patient care quality. Future work should aim to integrate broader stakeholder perspectives to refine and validate the COS further.

Monocyte to high-density lipoprotein ratio as a novel-potential biomarker for predicting prognosis of Bell's palsy

OBJECTIVES

In several disorders, the monocyte to high-density lipoprotein ratio (MHR) has been considered a biomarker of systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. However, its role in Bell's palsy (BP) remains unclear. This study investigates the relationship between elevated MHR and poor recovery in BP patients.

METHODS

The clinical data of 729 BP patients were analyzed retrospectively. The House-Brackmann Facial Nerve Grading System (H-B) was utilized to assess the severity of facial motor dysfunction during admission and the follow-up period after discharge. According to the 6 months follow-up data, H-B grades 1-2 were classified as recovered (n = 557), and H-B grades 3-6 as unrecovered (n = 172). The patients were split into MHR ≤ 0.26 (n = 361) and MHR > 0.26 (n = 368) groups based on the median MHR to further analyze the connection between different MHRs and prognosis.

RESULTS

The level of MHR was substantially greater in the unrecovered group of BP patients than in the restored group (medians[interquartile range], 0.32[0.20, 0.49] vs 0.24[0.11, 0.39], P < 0.001). MHR was an independent risk factor for BP prognosis as indicated by the multivariate logistic regression analysis (OR = 4.467, 95% CI = 1.875-10.646, P = 0.001). The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.615 (95% CI = 0.566-0.664, P < 0.001). The initial H-B score did not differ significantly between MHR ≤ 0.26 (n = 361) and MHR > 0.26 (n = 368) groups. However, after 6 months of follow-up, the high-MHR group's H-B score was considerably greater than the low-MHR group's.

CONCLUSIONS

MHR is expected to be an accessible and effective biomarker of BP. In BP patients, elevated MHR is related to an increased chance of poor recovery.

Predictors of Recovery in Facial Nerve Palsy: Insights From an Observational Study in Odisha, India

Background Facial nerve paralysis, leading to the loss of facial expression, poses significant discomfort to patients. While most individuals exhibit a favorable response to treatment, a subset experiences enduring facial deformities without clearly defined etiology. This study aimed to identify prognostic factors influencing outcomes and quality of life in facial nerve palsy patients, contributing to enhanced clinical management. Methods A prospective observational study was conducted in the Otorhinolaryngology Department of Maharaja Krishna Chandra Gajapati Medical College and Hospital, a tertiary care hospital. We included patients presenting with any clinical variety of facial nerve palsy, irrespective of age and gender. Only moribund and noncompliant cases were excluded. Patients underwent clinical assessment using the House-Brackmann (HB) grading at presentation and were subsequently monitored at three weeks, three months, and six months post-onset to assess recovery. Results Out of 66 patients, 18 (27.27%) fully recovered at three weeks, 50 (75.76%) recovered at three months, and 54 (81.82%) at six-month follow-up. Incomplete recovery was observed in 13 (19.69%) patients. Factors associated with favorable outcomes included younger age of onset (p = 0.003), lower baseline HB grade (IV or less) (p = 0.001), Electroneurography Degeneration Index (ENoG DI) of <70% (p < 0.0001), early initiation of treatment (within five days of onset) (p = 0.0003), and absence of comorbid conditions (p = 0.03). Gender and affected side (left or right) did not influence the outcome. Conclusion In summary, age, associated comorbid conditions, baseline HB grade, and extent of facial nerve degeneration are crucial predictors of outcomes in facial nerve palsy. This knowledge can guide clinicians in optimizing treatment strategies for improved patient care.

Comparison of oral versus intravenous steroid in the management of Bell's palsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Bell's palsy is a condition affecting cranial nerve VII that results in acute peripheral unilateral facial weakness or paralysis of unclear etiology. Corticosteroids are the primary therapy choice, because they improve outcomes. According to a recent study, prednisolone effectively treats Bell's palsy in the short and long term. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of Single-Dose Intravenous Methylprednisolone to Oral Prednisolone in treating Bell's palsy patients.

METHODS

PRISMA statement guidelines were used to design and conduct this systemic review. MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases were used in our search. We conducted the database search in November 2022.

RESULTS

Thirty-three publications were reviewed as a result of the literature review. Three studies were included in the meta-analysis after applying our criteria. 317 Bell's palsy patients were included in our study. Regarding complete recovery to grade 1 in 1 month, IV methylprednisolone was higher than oral prednisolone; (log OR = 0.52, 95% CI [0.08, 0.97], P = 0.022). However, at 3 months, the two groups had no significant difference. Patients with grade 4 Bell's palsy were more likely to fully recover to grade 1 in 1 month with IV methylprednisolone than with oral prednisolone (log OR = 0.73, 95% CI [0.19, 1.26], P = 0.008), but not for patients with grade 3 or grade 2 Bell's palsy.

CONCLUSION

This study shows evidence that patients with Bell's palsy can fully recover to grade 1 in 1 month when IV methylprednisolone is used instead of oral prednisolone. At 3 months, however, there was no discernible difference between the two treatments. Within 3 days of the onset of symptoms, IV methylprednisolone treatment can be started, which may help patients recover fully to grade 1 in 1 month. However, administering IV methylprednisolone may not always have long-term advantages compared to oral prednisolone.

Predicting value for incomplete recovery in Bell's palsy of facial nerve ultrasound versus nerve conduction study

OBJECTIVE

This longitudinal study aims at assessing the predictive value of facial nerve high-resolution ultrasound (HRUS) for incomplete clinical recovery in patients with Bell's palsy, the most common facial nerve disease.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled 34 consecutive patients with Bell's palsy. All patients underwent neurophysiological testing (including facial nerve conduction study) and HRUS evaluations 10-15 days (T1), one month (T2), and three months (T3) after the onset of Bell's palsy. Patients who did not experience complete recovery within three months were also evaluated after six months (T4). We have then compared the accuracy of HRUS with that of the facial nerve conduction study in predicting incomplete clinical recovery at three and six months.

RESULTS

At T1, the facial nerve diameter, as assessed with HRUS, was larger on the affected side than on the normal side, particularly in patients with incomplete recovery at T2, T3 and T4. ROC curve analysis, however, showed that the facial nerve diameter at T1 had a lower predictive value than the facial nerve conduction study for an incomplete clinical recovery at three (T3) and six (T4) months. Still, the facial nerve diameter asymmetry, as assessed with HRUS, had a relatively high negative predictive value (thus indicating a strong association between normal HRUS examination and a good prognosis).

CONCLUSIONS

Although HRUS shows abnormally increased facial nerve diameter in patients in the acute phase of Bell's palsy, the predictive value of this technique for incomplete clinical recovery at three and six months is lower than that of the nerve conduction study.

SIGNIFICANCE

Nerve ultrasound has a low predictive value for incomplete clinical recovery in patients with Bell's Palsy.

To Determine the Efficacy of Pentoxifylline in the Management of Bell's Palsy

Background and aims

Bell's palsy is an acute, unilateral, lower motor neuron peripheral facial paralysis. It is the most common cause of facial paralysis in the ages ranging from 13 to 65 years. It not only causes physical disfigurement of face but is also associated with social stigma and psychological trauma to the patient. In Bell's Palsy, there is hypoxic damage to the nerve due to reduced blood flow and cellular injury to the capillaries. Pentoxifylline is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor that increases the cAMP and cGMP levels at the site of the RBC cell membrane thereby improving the dexterity of the cell membrane allowing the RBCs to pass through the damaged and narrowed blood vessels thereby improving the perfusion and oxygen delivery to the damaged tissues. Vasoactive agents are not routinely used as an active component in the treatment. Since vascular compromise plays a predominant role in the pathophysiology of Bell's palsy, it is proposed that the addition of a vasoactive agent like Pentoxifylline can improve the recovery rate and shorten the duration of treatment in the management of Bell's Palsy.

Materials and methods

The study was conducted in the Department of ENT, BMCRI, Bangalore during the period February 2021 to August 2022. This is a prospective randomized control study which included 70 patients attending the out-patient department of ENT, Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Bangalore. Written informed consent was taken from all patients included in the study. A detailed history, thorough clinical examination, and relevant investigations were done for these patients. Patients were randomly divided into Group A and Group B based on random numbers generated by the WINPEPI software version 11.65. The study group (Group A) received standard treatment in addition to Tab Pentoxifylline 400 mg TID for 1 week. The control group (Group B) received only the standard treatment regimen. Patients were followed up on Days 5, 10, 15, and 6 months to assess recovery following treatment. The recovery of facial nerve function was evaluated as per the House-Brackmann Grading system for any improvement. Both pre-treatment and post-treatment HB grades were analyzed. The data collected were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis using ANOVA.

Results

The age distribution of the patients showed that the most common age group affected in this study was 18-30 years. Males were affected more than females (1.2:1). The most common HB grade at presentation noted in this study was Grade 4 in both groups (54.2%). At the beginning of the treatment, in Group A, around 43% patients had HB grade of 3 and 57% patients had HB grade of 4. In Group B, around 20% patients had HB grade 2, 28.57% patients with grade 3 and 51.43% patients with grade 4. After a follow-up period of 6 months, in Group A, around 43% of patients achieved a HB grade of 1, 51% patients achieved a grade of 2 and about 6% patients had a grade of 3. In Group B after a follow up period of 6 months, 29% patients achieved HB grade of 1, 46% patients achieved grade of 2 and 26% patients had a grade of 3. It was observed that 42.86% of patients had better outcomes (Normal facial function) in Group A (Study group) compared to 28.57% of patients in Group B (Control group). It is evident that a patient who presented with HB grades of 2 or 3 and who presented within 5 days had better chances of recovery which was statistically significant (p = 0.001).

Interpretation and conclusion

From the present study, it may be concluded that Bell's palsy occurs in all age groups. It affects younger age groups more commonly (2nd decade) and affects males more than females. The study group who had received Tab Pentoxifylline along with standard treatment had better outcome. This highlights the benefit of vasoactive agent in the management of Bell's palsy by improving the oxygen delivery to the affected tissues.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12070-023-04298-9.

Bell Palsy: Facts and Current Research Perspectives

Bell palsy is a non-progressive neurological condition characterized by the acute onset of ipsilateral seventh cranial nerve paralysis. People who suffer from this type of facial paralysis develop a droop on one side of their face, or sometimes both. This condition is distinguished by a sudden onset of facial paralysis accompanied by clinical features such as mild fever, postauricular pain, dysgeusia, hyperacusis, facial changes, and drooling or dry eyes. Epidemiological evidence suggests that 15 to 23 people per 100,000 are affected each year, with a recurrence rate of 12%. It could be caused by ischaemic compression of the seventh cranial nerve, which could be caused by viral inflammation. Pregnant women, people with diabetes, and people with respiratory infections are more likely to have facial paralysis than the general population. Immune, viral, and ischemic pathways are all thought to play a role in the development of Bell paralysis, but the exact cause is unknown. However, there is evidence that Bell's hereditary proclivity to cause paralysis is a public health issue that has a greater impact on patients and their families. Delay or untreated Bell paralysis may contribute to an increased risk of facial impairment, as well as a negative impact on the patient's quality of life. For management, antiviral agents such as acyclovir and valacyclovir, and steroid treatment are recommended. Thus, early diagnosis accompanied by treatment of the uncertain etiology of the disorder is crucial. This paper reviews mechanistic approaches, and emerging medical perspectives on recent developments that encounter Bell palsy disorder.

The Impact of Early Acupuncture on Bell's Palsy Recurrence: Real-World Evidence from Korea

Evidence-based treatment for Bell's palsy includes the administration of steroids within 3 days of symptom onset. Additionally, a few studies have suggested the importance of combining early acupuncture treatment in the acute phase of Bell's palsy with steroids. This study aimed to observe the impact of early acupuncture for Bell's palsy using real-world health insurance data in Korea. This retrospective study extracted data from 45,986 adult patients with Bell's palsy who received steroids between 2015 and 2017 with a follow-up period of at least 3 years until 2020 from the Korea National Health Insurance database. They were divided into the early acupuncture group (n = 28,267) and the comparison group (n = 17,719) based on the presence of an acupuncture treatment code within 7 days of diagnosis. The impact of early acupuncture on the likelihood of Bell's palsy recurrence was evaluated using multivariate logistic regression. The patients in the early acupuncture group had a lower likelihood of recurrence (odds ratio: 0.81, 95% confidence interval: 0.69-0.95). This study observed a beneficial impact of early acupuncture on Bell's palsy using real-world health insurance data in Korea. Further research is required to confirm these findings.

The Significance of Bell's Palsy That Presents as Monocranial Versus Polycranial Neuropathy: A Case Series and Systematic Literature Review

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect of Bell's palsy (BP) presenting as polycranial neuropathy (PCN) compared with BP caused by isolated facial nerve (CNVII).

METHODS

We carried out a retrospective cohort study of the medical records of all consecutive patients who were diagnosed with BP at a single tertiary referral center between 2010 and 2017. Included were patients 18 years or older who were clinically diagnosed with BP and completed 7 days of systemic steroidal treatment and at least 6 months of follow-up. The patients were divided into two groups according to whether the BP derived from a monocranial neuropathy or a PCN. Demographics and BP severity and outcome were compared between these groups. A systematic literature review using Medline via "PubMed," "Embase," and "Web of Science" was conducted.

RESULTS

In total, 321 patients with BP were enrolled. The median (interquartile range) age at presentation was 44 (33-60) years. Sex distribution showed male predominance of 57.6% (n = 185) versus 42.4% (n = 136), and 21.2% (n = 68) had PCN. The most concomitantly affected cranial nerve (CN) was the trigeminal (CNV; n = 32, 47%), followed by the glossopharyngeal nerve (CNIX; n = 14, 21%) and the audiovestibular nerve (CNVIII; n = 10, 15%). Age, House-Brackmann score on presentation, and diabetes mellitus (DM) were independent predictors for PCN etiology ( p = 0.001, p = 0.034, and p < 0.001, respectively). Each increase in 1 year of age was associated with additional odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of 0.97 (0.95-0.99) for PCN. The odds ratio (95% confidence interval) associated with DM was 8.19 (4.02-16.70). Our systematic literature review identified 1,440 patients with the PCN type of BP. The most commonly affected CN was the trigeminus (25-48%), followed by the glossopharyngeal and audiovestibular nerves (2-19% and 0-43%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The severity of facial weakness on initial presentation among PCN patients was significantly higher compared with the monocranial neuropathy-type BP patients. The authors believe that the significant association and prevalence rate ratio between DM and PCN warrant that a patient presenting with PCN undergo screening for DM.

Bell's palsy in pregnancy: A scoping review of risk factors, treatment and outcomes

Objective

There are limited studies reporting on Bell's palsy and pregnancy. Our study aimed to evaluate risk factors, current treatment options and facial function outcomes in women who developed Bell's palsy in pregnancy. To our knowledge this is the first review analyzing these factors.

Data sources/review methods

A search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Sciences and Scopus was carried out. Studies describing risk factors, treatment and/or facial function outcomes of Bell's palsy in pregnancy were included. PRISMA-Scr guidelines were followed.

Results

The search yielded 392 abstracts, of which 15 studies were included for analysis. It was not possible to perform a meta-analysis due to small numbers and quality of studies. There were 559 patients included from the 15 studies. The third trimester was the most common time for Bell's palsy to occur (n = 364, 65%). Pre-eclampsia was the most common co-morbidity reported. The most common treatment was corticosteroids and the majority of patients had a complete recovery of their palsy (58%, n = 192).

Conclusion

This analysis has evaluated all available data concerning risk factors, treatment and facial function outcomes of BP in pregnancy. The third trimester is the most common time for Bell's palsy to occur in pregnancy. There is currently a lack of high quality evidence into this condition in pregnancy.

Level of evidence

1.

Association of Influenza Vaccination With Risk of Bell Palsy Among Older Adults in Taiwan

Importance

Annual administration of the influenza vaccine (fluVc) is currently the most effective method of preventing the influenza virus in older adults. However, half of adults older than 65 years remain unvaccinated in Taiwan, possibly because of concern about adverse events, such as Bell palsy (BP). Currently, studies on the association between fluVc and risk of BP are inconsistent.

Objective

To determine whether the incidence of BP increases following fluVc in older adults.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A self-controlled case series study design was used. Days 1 through 7, days 8 through 14, days 15 through 30, and days 31 through 60 following fluVc were identified as risk intervals, and days 61 through 180 were considered the control interval. A total of 4367 vaccinated individuals aged 65 years or older who developed BP within 6 months following fluVc were enrolled. Population-based retrospective claims data were obtained between 2010 and 2017; data were analyzed from April 2022 through September 2022.

Exposure

Government-funded seasonal fluVc.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The outcome of interest was BP onset in risk intervals compared with control intervals. Three or more consecutive diagnoses of BP within 60 days following fluVc were used as the definition of a patient with BP. Poisson regression was used to analyze the incidence rate ratio (IRR) of risk intervals compared with control intervals.

Results

In total, 13 261 521 patients who received the fluVc were extracted from the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2017. Of those, 7 581 205 patients older than 65 years old met the inclusion criteria. The number of patients with BP diagnosed within 6 months following fluVc enrolled for risk analysis was 4367 (mean [SD] age, 74.19 [5.97] years; 2349 [53.79%] female patients). The incidence rate of BP among all observed fluVc older adults was 57.87 per 100 000 person-years. The IRRs for BP on days 1 through 7, days 8 through 14, and days 15 through 30 were 4.18 (95% CI, 3.82-4.59), 2.73 (95% CI, 2.45-3.05), and 1.67 (95% CI, 1.52-1.84), respectively. However, there was no increase during days 31 through 60 (IRR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.97-1.16). The postvaccination risk of BP was consistent across all subgroups stratified by sex, age group, and baseline conditions.

Conclusions and Relevance

The present self-controlled case series indicated that the risk of BP in individuals older than 65 years increased within the first month, especially within the first week, following fluVc. But overall, the adverse event rate of BP was low, and considering the morbidity and mortality of influenza infection, the benefits of fluVc still outweigh the risks.

Expression and Role of Toll-like Receptors in Facial Nerve Regeneration after Facial Nerve Injury

Facial nerve palsy directly impacts the quality of life, with patients with facial nerve palsy showing increased rates of depression and limitations in social activities. Although facial nerve palsy is not life-threatening, it can devastate the emotional and social lives of affected individuals. Hence, improving the prognosis of patients with this condition is of vital importance. The prognosis of patients with facial nerve palsy is determined by the cause of the disease, the degree of damage, and the treatment provided. The facial nerve can be easily damaged by middle ear and temporal bone surgery, trauma or infection, and tumors of the peripheral facial nerve or tumors surrounding the nerve secondary to systemic disease. In addition, idiopathic, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and autoimmune diseases may damage the facial nerve. The treatment used for facial paralysis depends on the cause. Treatment of facial nerve amputation injury varies depending on the degree of facial nerve damage, comorbidities, and duration of injury. Recently, interest has increased in Toll-like receptors (TLRs) related to innate immune responses, as these receptors are known to be related to nerve regeneration. In addition to innate immune cells, both neurons and glia of the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS) express TLRs. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to assess the expression and role of TLRs in peripheral nerve injury and subsequent regeneration. Studies conducted on rats and mice have demonstrated the expression of TLR1-13. Among these, TLR2-5 and TLR7 have received the most research attention in relation to facial nerve degeneration and regeneration. TLR10, TLR11, and TLR13 increase during compression injury of the facial nerve, whereas during cutting injury, TLR1-5, TLR8, and TLR10-13 increase, indicating that these TLRs are involved in the degeneration and regeneration of the facial nerve following each type of injury. Inadequate TLR expression or absence of TLR responses can hinder regeneration after facial nerve damage. Animal studies suggest that TLRs play an important role in facial nerve degeneration and regeneration.

Retrospective study of peripheral facial paralysis in a tertiary hospital over 3 years

PURPOSE

To identify clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients with peripheral facial palsy (PFP) at a tertiary care hospital.

METHOD

This is a retrospective observational study of patients with PFP treated at a tertiary medical center. We gathered demographic data, etiology, laterality, recurrence, recovery, clinical ophthalmology, severity according to the House-Brackmann (HB) scale, electrophysiological tests, medical services attended, medical and surgical treatment.

RESULTS

Two hundred and eighty-three PFP were included, 135 (48%) were men and 148 (52%) were women p = 0.47). All patients had unilateral involvement. The mean age was 54 ± 20 years. The main etiology was idiopathic in 215 (76%) patients. Median recovery time was 7 weeks. Recovery was complete in 190 (67%) patients. One hundred and seventy (84%) patients with idiopathic PFP had complete recovery, versus 30 (16%) patients with non-idiopathic PFP (p < 0.01). The 84% of patients with HB grade II, recovered completely, while with HB grade VI only 17% recovered (p = 0.003). Two hundred and twenty-nine patients (81%) had lagophthalmos. The majority received ocular surface care treatment in 271 (96%) patients and of these 249 (88%) patients received oral corticosteroid therapy. Thirteen patients (5%) required ophthalmologic surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

PFP affects all age ranges, without predilection for sex and unilateral. Its main cause is idiopathic. Recovery is complete in most cases, being more favorable in mild and idiopathic affections. Most only require medical treatment.

Comparing the Clinical Manifestations of Bell's Palsy between Pre-COVID-19 Pandemic and COVID-19 Pandemic Periods

BACKGROUND

COVID-19 has been shown to affect the onset and severity of various diseases. We examined whether the clinical characteristics of Bell's palsy differed between before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

From January 2005 to December 2021, 1839 patients were diagnosed and treated for Bell's palsy at Kyung Hee University Hospital. These patients were divided into a pre-COVID period group and COVID-19 period group, and the clinical characteristics of the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

There were 1719 patients in the pre-COVID period group and 120 patients in the COVID-19 period group. There were no between-group differences in sex (p = 0.103) or in the presence of underlying hypertension (p = 0.632) or diabetes (p = 0.807). Regarding symptoms, there were no significant between-group differences in otalgia, dizziness, tinnitus, hyperacusis, or hearing loss (p = 0.304, p = 0.59, p = 0.351, p = 0.605, and p = 0.949). There were also no significant between-group differences in electroneurography results (p = 0.398), electromyography results (p = 0.331), House-Brackmann Grade at visit (p = 0.634), or recovery rate after treatment (p = 0.525).

CONCLUSIONS

Contrary to our expectation that Bell's palsy cases during the COVID-19 pandemic would show different clinical features than those occurring before COVID-19, the present study found no differences in clinical features or prognosis.

Clinical Prognostic Indicators in Predicting the Outcome in Patients with Bell's Palsy: A Descriptive, longitudinal Study from Puducherry, South India

Electrophysiological studies can objectively predict the functional recovery in Bell's palsy but, the clinical prognostic indicators seem to be more practical where the nerve conduction studies are not available. To determine the clinical prognostic indicators in Bell's palsy patients and to determine the indicators with poor outcome for recovery. We designed a prospective, descriptive, and observational analysis of Bell's palsy patients, who presented to our ENT outpatients department. 34 patients with Bell's palsy were recruited for this study. We studied the demographic characteristics, sidedness, associated symptoms, time of presentation, grade, and therapeutic options. All the patients were followed up for 8 weeks and the final grade of functional recovery of the nerve was recorded. The patient information was entered in Epicollect 5software and the output was analysed as descriptive statistics. Hypothesis testing was accomplished by means of χ2 test or Fischer exact test, to compare the proportions of categorical data and continuous data using the Mann-Whitney U test. 91.17% (31/34) of Bell's palsy patients had complete facial nerve function recovery at the end of 8 weeks. Higher Age > 40 years (p = 0.022) and BP patients with coronary artery disease (p = 0.005) were the only two significant indicators for incomplete recovery. We suggest that all Bell's palsy patients seek medical advice early at the onset,especially the BP patients of older age and with coronary artery disease for faster recovery.

Characteristics and Treatment Methods of Bell’s Palsy in Patients Visiting Korean Medicine Hospitals From August 2018 to July 2021

Background: This study was designed to statistically analyze the data of patients who had Bell’s palsy (BP) who visited a Korean Medicine hospital in the last 3 years to determine the tendency or characteristics of their visit.Methods: This study retrospectively analyzed the medical records of 816 patients. Based on the data collected through medical records demographics, condition/disease, and therapeutic characteristics of the patients were analyzed using IBM SPSS Version 23.0.Results: Patients in their teens or younger, and 50s or older had a higher frequency of inpatient treatment, and 20s to 40s had a higher rate of outpatient treatment. The proportion of men who received steroid combination treatment was higher than women. The number of patients with BP, and the total treatment period of the patients has decreased every year. The total treatment period was shorter in the steroid group than the Korean medicine alone group. Inpatients were more likely to receive steroid combination therapy than outpatients. The proportion of patients who received steroid combination therapy was higher than patients with recurrence of BP. Patients with hypertension or diabetes had a higher rate of hospitalization and received more treatments than patients without the condition/disease.Conclusion: Visit characteristics and treatment methods preferred by patients with BP were identified. This research may help to establish a treatment model for BP in Korean Medicine institutions in the future.

Facial nerve palsy in neurosarcoidosis: clinical course, neuroinflammatory accompaniments, ancillary investigations, and response to treatment

BACKGROUND

Facial nerve palsy is a cardinal manifestation of neurosarcoidosis, but dedicated studies of this disease feature have not been conducted. We sought to clarify the impact of facial palsy on the diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis, its subsequent clinicoradiographic evolution, and eventual treatment decisions.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective analysis of patients with neurosarcoidosis and facial palsy was conducted over the preceding 10 years (01/01/2011-08/12/2021).

RESULTS

23/218 (10.6%) patients with neurosarcoidosis developed facial neuropathy. It was the inaugural manifestation of neurosarcoidosis in 17/23 (73.9%) and presented in isolation of other neurologic deficits or extra-facial MRI abnormalities in 12/23 (52.2%). At onset, facial palsy was unilateral in 20/23 (87.0%), and multiple cranial neuropathies were seen in 8/23 (34.8%). Non-facial inflammatory MRI abnormalities were observed in 6/15 (40.0%) patients at onset with leptomeningitis being most common (5/15, 33.3%). 13/23 (56.5%) experienced a second attack of neurosarcoidosis at a median of 8 months, including 3/23 (13.0%) with recurrent facial palsies. In the 12 patients with isolated facial paresis at onset, 4/12 (33.3%) remained free of new deficits or neuroimaging abnormalities by last follow-up. 17/23 (73.9%) eventually required initiation of steroid-sparing immunosuppressants, almost all for development of non-facial disease. The final median House-Brackmann score was 1.

CONCLUSION

Facial neuropathy occurred less commonly than historically reported, and it often acts as a forerunner to systemic sarcoidosis and more widespread neurologic disease. Recurrent attacks of neurosarcoidosis occur early at high frequency following facial palsy. Recovery of facial nerve function is typically excellent.

Risk factors for Bell's palsy based on the Korean National Health Insurance Service National Sample Cohort data

The associations between hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia with Bell's palsy have been controversial and only a few studies have assessed risk factors for Bell's palsy based on population-based data. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether sociodemographic factors such as sex, age, residence, household income, and metabolic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia were risk factors for Bell's palsy using the National Health Insurance Service National Sample Cohort data of Korea. Patients who visited an outpatient clinic twice or more or had one or more admission and received steroid medication under the International Classification of Diseases diagnostic codes for Bell's palsy from 2006 to 2015 were defined as patients with Bell's palsy in this study. The associations between sociodemographic factors and metabolic diseases to Bell's palsy were analyzed with univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression models. There were 2708 patients with Bell's palsy recorded from 2006 to 2015. Male sex, advanced age, residence in a location other than the capital and metropolitan cities, hypertension, and diabetes were significant risk factors for Bell's palsy. This study is significant for patients and providers because we analyzed the relationships using a population-based database over a long-term follow-up period.

Approach to Facial Weakness

Facial palsy is a common neurologic concern and is the most common cranial neuropathy. The facial nerve contains motor, parasympathetic, and special sensory functions. The most common form of facial palsy is idiopathic (Bell's palsy). A classic presentation requires no further diagnostic measures, and generally improves with a course of corticosteroid and antiviral therapy. If the presentation is atypical, or concerning features are present, additional studies such as brain imaging and cerebrospinal fluid analysis may be indicated. Many conditions may present with facial weakness, either in isolation or with other neurologic signs (e.g., multiple cranial neuropathies). The most important ones to recognize include infections (Ramsay-Hunt syndrome associated with herpes zoster oticus, Lyme neuroborreliosis, and complications of otitis media and mastoiditis), inflammatory (demyelination, sarcoidosis, Miller-Fisher variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome), and neoplastic. No matter the cause, individuals may be at risk for corneal injury, and, if so, should have appropriate eye protection. Synkinesis may be a bothersome residual phenomenon in some individuals, but it has a variety of treatment options including neuromuscular re-education and rehabilitation, botulinum toxin chemodenervation, and surgical intervention.

The efficacy and safety of acupoint catgut embedding for peripheral facial paralysis: A protocol for systematic review and meta analysis

BACKGROUND

Peripheral facial paralysis (PFP) is a consequence of the peripheral neuronal lesion of the facial nerve. It can be either primary (Bell palsy) or secondary. The incidence of PFP is 11.5 to 40.2 per 100,000 people a year. Nearly 70% of patients with PFP recover completely, but almost 30% of patients leave multiple sequelae which caused impacts on the patient's quality of life, both physically and psychologically. The conventional treatments of PFP are limited for some person because of side-effects. Previous studies have suggested that using acupoint catgut embedding (ACE) alone or combined with other therapeutic methods is effective for PFP. However, whether ACE is effective for PFP is still unknown. The purpose of this systematic review (SR) and meta-analysis will summarize the present evidence of ACE used as an intervention for PFP.

METHOD/DESIGN

Randomized controlled clinical trials that use ACE for PFP will be searched from four international electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Web of Science) and 4 Chinese electronic databases (China National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP, Wanfang, and China Biology Medicine) to search for relevant literature. We only include studies that were published from the initiation to May 2021. The primary outcomes include effectiveness rate based on House-Brackmann Facial Nerve Grading System. Secondary outcomes will include Sunnybrook facial nerve grading system, Portmann score, facial nerve conduction velocity, Facial Disability Index Scale, adverse events. Two reviewers will perform study selection, data extraction, data synthesis, and quality assessment independently. Assessment of risk of bias and data synthesis will be conducted by using Review Manager 5.3 software. Grade system will be used to evaluate the quality of evidence.

DISCUSSION

This systematic review will help establish clinical evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of acupoint catgut embedding for peripheral facial paralysis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42021243212 (PROSPERO).

Bell's Palsy Associated with COVID-19 Infection: A Case Report

The COVID-19 has a wide range of symptoms. This novel infectious disease may also trigger a vast range of neurological involvements. The current report describes a case of COVID-19 complicated with Bell's palsy. A 64-year-old woman with diabetes was admitted due to abrupt left hemifacial weakness. On examination, her left hemifacial expression ability was impaired so that her face seemed asymmetrical during smiling, and numbness around the left nasolabial fold was detected. Furthermore, her ability to wink was impaired, and her eyebrow drooped. A brain computed tomography (CT) scan did not show any abnormalities. A lung CT scan was performed, which demonstrated bilateral ground-glass opacity (GGO), along with RT-PCR results indicative of COVID-19. A diagnosis of Bell's palsy in the setting of COVID-19 infection was made. She received antiviral agents and corticosteroids. At two-week follow-up, her symptoms had improved. During the COVID-19 epidemic, any newly occurred neurological involvement raises the suspicion of COVID-19 infection.

Evaluation of prognostic factors in patients with Bell's palsy

BACKGROUND

Bell's palsy is a common neurological problem that leads to peripheral palsy of the facial nerve. Most patients have a favorable response with or without treatment while some are left with significant facial deformity. Identification of factors which influence the outcome in patients with Bell's palsy may help clinicians counsel better.

METHODS

A prospective cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Neurology Nobel Medical College, Biratnagar, between February 2020 and February 2021 after obtaining ethical clearance from the institutional review committee. Patients were assessed at the time of presentation to hospital and followed up at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after the onset of illness to evaluate for recovery.

RESULTS

Sixty-two (61.4%) of 101 patients had a favorable outcome at the follow up on the third month, achieving H-B grade 2 or lower, while 33 (32.7%) had moderate dysfunction and 6 (5.9%) had severe dysfunction. The following factors were associated with favorable outcome: younger age of onset (p < .001), lower initial H-B grade of III or IV (p = .001), lesser degree of amplitude reduction on affected side as compared to unaffected side (p = .001) and absence of hypertension and diabetes. The following factors did not influence outcome at three months: duration of Bell's palsy (p = 0.142), side of face affected, and gender (p = .09).

CONCLUSIONS

Most of the patients with Bell's palsy have favorable outcomes. Age, hypertension, initial H-B grade, and extent of facial nerve degeneration as recorded by nerve conduction studies are important predictors of outcome.

Steroids plus antiviral agents are more effective than steroids alone in the treatment of severe Bell's palsy patients over 40 years of age

Objective

The effectiveness of the combination of steroids and antiviral agents in the treatment of Bell’s palsy remains unclear. This study evaluated the therapeutic effect of combination therapy in severe Bell’s palsy patients and assesses specific conditions under which combination therapy is more effective than steroids alone.

Methods

From January 2005 to December 2019, the records of 1710 Bell’s palsy patients who visited Kyung Hee University Hospital were reviewed retrospectively. Of these, 335 (19.6%) patients were diagnosed with severe Bell’s palsy, with 162 patients treated with steroids alone and 173 patients treated with combinations of steroids and antiviral agents. The outcomes of treatment were assessed using the House–Brackmann (H-B) grade according to age, sex, hypertension, diabetes, and obesity.

Results

The favorable recovery rate was significantly higher in severe Bell’s palsy patients who were treated with combinations of steroids and antiviral agents than with steroids alone (78.0% vs. 66.7%, p = 0.020). Subgroup analysis showed that combination therapy resulted in significantly higher recovery rates than steroids alone in patients aged ≥40 years (77.5% vs. 64.1%, p = 0.023) and in those without hypertension (75.8% vs. 63.3%, p = 0.044) and diabetes (79.7% vs. 65.5%, p = 0.007).

Conclusion

Combination therapy with steroids and antiviral agents resulted in significantly higher favorable recovery rates than steroids alone in severe Bell’s palsy patients. Combination therapy was particularly more effective than steroids alone in patients aged ≥40 years and in patients without hypertension and diabetes.

Clinical Prognostic Factors Associated with Good Outcomes in Pediatric Bell's Palsy

The prognosis of children with Bell’s palsy remains unclear due to its relatively low incidence, and thus, the small number of patients included in individual studies. To evaluate the prognosis of children with Bell’s palsy and identify the predictive value of specific factors that contribute to complete recovery, a retrospective cohort study was conducted of all patients with Bell’s palsy who visited the outpatient clinic of our university hospital between January 2005 and December 2020. We identified the parameters associated with a favorable recovery after 6 months in pediatric patients with Bell’s palsy. Factors recorded for each patient included age, sex, side affected by palsy, time between symptom onset and start of treatment, treatment methods, and the House–Brackmann grade (H–B) grade. The results of the multivariable analysis revealed that the lower degree of initial facial nerve paralysis presented as H–B grade II–IV was a significant favorable prognostic factor (OR: 3.86; 95% CI: 1.27–11.70; p < 0.05). Our results showed that the most important factor influencing the complete recovery of Bell’s palsy in children was the lower initial H–B grade at initial presentation.

Association between Initial Severity of Facial Weakness and Outcomes of Bell's Palsy

To establish whether clinical prognostic factor outcomes differed based on the initial severity of facial weakness and to determine the association between the initial severity of facial weakness and favorable outcomes. This retrospective cohort study analyzed all patients with Bell's palsy who visited the outpatient clinic of our university hospital from 1 January 2005 through 31 January 2021. The primary outcome was the rate of recovery at 6 months, evaluated separately in patients with initial House-Brackmann (H-B) grades 3-4 and 5-6. Secondary outcomes included clinical factors associated with favorable outcomes stratified by the initial H-B grade. The rate of favorable recovery was higher in patients with initial H-B grades 3-4 than initial H-B grades 5-6 (82.9% vs. 68.2%, p < 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that age 19-65 years and good electromyography (EMG) results were prognostic of good outcomes in patients with initial H-B grades 3-4. In addition, good EMG results, controlled hypertension, and combination antiviral therapy were significantly prognostic of favorable outcomes in patients with initial H-B grades 5-6. Subgroup analysis interactions showed that combination antiviral therapy (OR: 3.06, 95% CI 1.62-5.78, p < 0.001) in initial H-B grades 5-6 were associated with more favorable outcomes at 6 months than with initial H-B grades 3-4. Our results showed that the proportion of patients who achieved favorable outcomes at 6 months and multiple clinical factors affecting favorable outcomes differed significantly among patients differing in initial severity of Bell's palsy.

Recovery from Idiopathic Facial Paralysis (Bell’s Palsy) Using Photobiomodulation in Patients Non-Responsive to Standard Treatment: A Case Series Study

Diminished facial movement and marked facial asymmetry can lead to a consistent psychological burden. Bell′s palsy (BP) is one of the most common causes of facial nerve illness, which comes with unilateral acute facial paresis. Nowadays, no clear guidelines for treating BP are available. We carried out a case series study to test the efficacy of photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy in patients with BP non-responsive to standard treatment. The study was experimentally performed at the Department of Surgical and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Genoa (Genoa, Italy), in accordance with case report guidelines. Patients were referred to our department by colleagues for evaluation to be included in the case series because no consistent improvement was observed at least 3 months from the diagnosis of BP. All the patients interrupted their pharmacological therapy before the initiation of PBM therapy. PBM therapy (808 nm, 1 W irradiated in continuous-wave for 60 s on spot-size 1 cm2; 1 W/cm2; 60 J/cm2; and 60 J) was administered every 2 days until complete resolution. Evaluation of the House-Brackmann scale was performed before and after treatments. Fourteen patients were screened as eligible for the study. Patients were Caucasians (36% females and 64% males) with a mean age ± standard deviation of 56.07 ± 15.21 years. Eleven patients out of 14, who experienced BP a maximum of 6 months, completely recovered through PBM. The three patients that did not show improvement were those who had experienced BP for years. PBM could be a supportive therapy for the management of BP in patients non-responsive to standard treatment. However, randomized controlled trials are necessary to sustain our encouraging results, exclude bias, and better explain the boundary between the time from diagnosis and the recovery of BP through PBM therapy.

Protracted COVID-19 during Treatment of Facial Palsy

Neurologic manifestations are increasingly reported as the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues. This is a report of a COVID-19 patient with Bell's palsy. Case Summary. A 52-year-old man with fever and malaise was tested positive for COVID-19. After a week, he developed right-sided peripheral facial palsy and was treated with corticosteroids in conjunction with antiviral treatment which resulted in complete recovery. Discussion. Concomitant treatment of corticosteroids and antiviral treatment can decrease morbidity in patients with COVID-19-related Bell's palsy.

Evaluation of Effects of Diabetes Mellitus, Hypercholesterolemia and Hypertension on Bell's Palsy

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of diabetes mellitus, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia on the clinical presentation and outcome of Bell’s palsy. The study (comorbidity) group consisted of 50 patients with Bell’s palsy associated with diabetes, hypertension, or hypercholesterolemia; the control group included 46 patients with Bell’s palsy, but without comorbid diseases. The House–Brackmann grading system (I to VI) was used in order to assess the initial and final facial functions. Both groups of patients were treated with steroids and the antiviral agent acyclovir. The mean severity of initial facial paralysis was more significant in diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, and hypertension, in comparison to the control group. Patients suffering from Bell’s palsy and concomitant comorbidities have a poorer prognosis (HB III-VI) compared to patients without comorbidities. Increased glycosylated hemoglobin A1c levels (>6.7%) were significantly correlated with unsatisfactory facial recovery. The pathogenetic mechanisms by which diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, and hypertension affect the vasa nervosum of facial nerve have been described.

Epidemiological trends of Bell's palsy treated with steroids in Korea between 2008 and 2018

INTRODUCTION

Contemporary epidemiological data on Bell's palsy are crucial to clarify disease burden and improve management strategies. We aimed to examine the epidemiology of, and factors associated with, Bell's palsy treated with steroids in Korea.

METHODS

Using the National Health Insurance claims data from 2008 to 2018, we determined the incidence, recurrence rate, and management trends of Bell's palsy treated with steroids. We defined Bell's palsy cases based on diagnostic codes and concurrent treatment with steroids.

RESULTS

The incidence of Bell's palsy showed an increasing trend (from 23.0 per 100 000 persons in 2008 to 30.8 per 100 000 persons in 2018). Age (60-69 y), sex (men), and month (January) were risk factors of Bell's palsy. The recurrence rate of Bell's palsy over the 11-y period was 1.5%. Male sex (hazard ratio [HR], 1.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0-1.2) and physiotherapy (HR, 0.9; 95% CI, 0.8-0.99) were independently associated with the recurrence of Bell's palsy. During the study period, the use of electrodiagnostic testing steadily increased, whereas that of physiotherapy steadily decreased, and antiviral therapy fluctuated,.

DISCUSSION

The incidence and recurrence rates presented in this study are comparable with those reported in earlier studies that included patients with Bell's palsy, regardless of the use of steroids, and documented an increase in the burden of Bell's palsy. Further randomized controlled trials are required to ascertain the long-term effects of physiotherapy on recurrent Bell's palsy.

Reappraisal of the Prognostic Factors of Outcome and Recovery Time in Patients with Idiopathic Bell's Palsy: A Retrospective Single-Center Analysis

Study Objectives: This retrospective study investigated prognostic factors and recovery time in patients with Bell’s palsy after different doses and durations of oral glucocorticoid treatments. Subjects and Methods: A total of 396 patients initially diagnosed with Bell’s palsy that had visited the Department of Neurology of Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, a tertiary referral medical center in Taiwan, between January 2014 and December 2018 were included. Medical records, facial electroneurography (fENoG), and blink reflex (BR) tests were reviewed and analyzed. A favorable outcome was defined as patients who improved to grade ≤ II, and an unfavorable outcome was defined as patients who improved to grade ≥ III in 6 months according to the House–Brackmann (HB) grading system. Results: The rate of favorable outcomes was 89.4% (354 of 396 patients) at the 6-month follow-up. A favorable outcome (HB less than grade II) was associated with a delayed BR (odds ratio, OR, 5.38; 95% CI, 1.82 to 15.90) and fENoG values (the lesion side/the healthy side) over 33% (OR, 6.67; 95% CI, 3.02 to 14.71). The recovery time was significantly shorter for those with a delayed BR than for those with an absent BR and shorter for those with good fENoG values (>33%) than for those with poor values (≤33%). However, treatment without or with different doses and durations of oral glucocorticoid did not influence the final outcome or recovery time in this study. Conclusions: The fENoG and BR tests were significant and highly valuable examinations for predicting the final outcome. Moreover, age younger than 60 years, a delayed BR, and fENoG values > 33% were associated with shorter recovery times.

Effectiveness of Kinesio taping on peripheral facial paralysis: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Peripheral facial paralysis is a rapid unilateral facial paralysis or paralysis of unknown etiology. Nearly 30% of patients leave sequela that have a negative impact on the patient's quality of life, both physically and psychologically. As its safety, convenience and effectiveness, Kinesio taping has been gradually used in the rehabilitation of peripheral facial paralysis. However, whether Kinesio taping is effective for peripheral facial paralysis is still unknown. The purpose of this systematic review (SR) and meta-analysis will summarize the current evidence of Kinesio taping used as an intervention for peripheral facial paralysis.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We will search the following electronic databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) to evaluate the effectiveness of Kinesio taping in treating peripheral facial paralysis: China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Date, SinoMed, Technology Periodical Database (VIP), PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Library. Each database will be searched from inception to April 2020. Studies that present clear descriptions of Kinesio taping in treating peripheral facial paralysis administration are published in peer-reviewed journals in any languages and are published in full will be taken into consideration. The entire process will include study selection, data extraction, risk of bias assessment and meta-analyses. Assessment of risk of bias and data synthesis will be conducted using Review Manager 5.3 software.

RESULTS

The current evidence on the Kinesio taping for managing peripheral facial paralysis will be illustrated using subjective reports and objective measures of performance. The primary outcome is the effective rate. Secondary outcomes include House-Brackmann scale, Portmann score, facial nerve conduction velocity, Facial Disability Index, Facial Disability Index include Facial Function score and social Function score.

CONCLUSION

This protocol will present evidence on the efficacy of Kinesio taping in relieving peripheral facial paralysis.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Since all the data used in this SR and meta-analysis have been published, ethical approval is not required for this review. The results of this SR will be published in a peer-reviewed journal or presented at conferences. INPLASY ID:: (INPLASY2020100008).

Facial Nerve Palsy: Clinical Practice and Cognitive Errors

Facial paralysis is the most common cranial nerve paralysis and the majority of these are idiopathic. Idiopathic facial nerve paralysis, or Bell palsy, typically presents acutely, affects the entire face, may be associated with hyperacusis, a decrease in lacrimation, salivation, or dysgeusia, and typically resolves spontaneously. The diagnosis of idiopathic facial paralysis is made after a thorough history and physical examination to exclude alternative etiologies and follow-up to ensure recovery of facial function. Atypical presentation, recurrent paralysis, additional neurologic deficits, lack of facial recovery in 2-3 months, or a history of head and neck or cutaneous malignancy are concerning for alternative causes of facial paralysis requiring workup. The erroneous use of the eponym Bell palsy to refer to all causes of facial paralysis, regardless of the history and presentation, may result in cognitive errors, including premature closure, anchoring bias, and diagnosis momentum. Hence, we recommend replacing the eponym Bell palsy with idiopathic facial nerve paralysis.