Learning objectives
Facial nerve paralysis is a problem which usually makes patients present themselves to the primary care physicians.
Bell’s palsy (idiopathic) is the most common cause of facial paralysis and it does not require imaging evaluation for diagnosis normally.
Otherwise,
appropriate work-up including computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be necessary in patients with atypical presentation or unusual course.
We propose the next objectives:
- Review the anatomy of the facial nerve motor component.
-Review the anatomy and function of the facial nerve...
Background
Facial nerve paralysis is a frequent problem encountered in the primary care department.
Misdiagnosis of other causes of facial nerve paralysis as Bell’s palsy is not uncommon,
because they have similar clinical signs.
Radiologic techniques can provide a useful tool to get the right diagnosis.
The first step in imaging diagnosis of facial paralysis is to know the
anatomy and physiologyof the facial nerve.
The facial nerve structure is highly complex.
In its course it provides motor control of most of the muscles of facial...
Imaging findings OR Procedure details
Technique:
-Cranial CT emergent.
-CT of the petrous temporal bone.
-MRI cerebral +/- contrast enhancement.
-MRI of the internal ear+ contrast enhancement.
-MRI of the neck+ contrast enhancement.
Conclusion
The radiologist have to know the anatomy and function of the facial nerve to get the right diagnostic in non Bell's palsy pathologies.
References
-Diagnostic and Surgical Imaging Anatomy: Brain,
Head and Neck,
Spine.
-Diagnostic Imaging: Head and Neck: Published by Amirsys.