Recent developments in Bell's palsy
BMJ 2004; 329 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.329.7465.553 (Published 02 September 2004) Cite this as: BMJ 2004;329:553- N Julian Holland, specialist registrar (njulianholland@hotmail.com)1,
- Graeme M Weiner, consultant1
- 1 Department of Otolaryngology, Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter EX2 5DW
- Correspondence to: N J Holland
- Accepted 8 June 2004
Introduction
General practitioners in the United Kingdom will see about one patient with Bell's palsy every two years. Increasing evidence shows that the way the patient is managed has an important effect on outcome. Untreated Bell's palsy leaves some patients with major facial dysfunction and a reduced quality of life. Of patients with Bell's palsy registered by general practitioners between 1992 and 1996 a fifth were referred for specialist opinion, just over a third received oral steroids, and 0.6% received aciclovir.1 Improving outcomes requires coordination between specialists and general practitioners so that patients are treated during the critical first 72 hours. We outline recent developments in Bell's palsy and current best evidence in its management.
Sources and selection criteria
We canvassed specialists with an interest in acute facial palsy and incorporated the latest consensus from key publications and systematic reviews. We performed a hierarchical literature search through Medline, CINAHL, SUMSearch, bmj.com, Lancet Neurology Network, Bandolier, Health Technology Assessment, Clinical Evidence, and the Cochrane Library. Both authors are otolaryngologists with an interest in neurotology and facial palsy.
Incidence and pathophysiology
Bell's palsy accounts for almost three quarters of all acute facial palsies, with the highest incidence in the 15 to 45 year old age group (table 1).2 The annual incidence in the UK population is around 20 per 100 000, with one in 60 people being affected during their lifetime. Men and women are equally affected, although the incidence is higher in pregnant women (45 cases per 100 000).
- In this window
- In a new window
Recent developments
Bell's palsy is probably caused by herpes viruses, mainly herpes simplex virus type 1 and herpes zoster virus
Facial palsy improves after treatment with combined oral aciclovir and prednisone
Treatment of partial Bell's palsy is controversial; a few patients don't recover if left untreated
Treatment is probably more effective …
Log in
Log in using your username and password
Log in through your institution
Subscribe from £173 *
Subscribe and get access to all BMJ articles, and much more.
* For online subscription
Access this article for 1 day for:
£38 / $45 / €42 (excludes VAT)
You can download a PDF version for your personal record.