title: Bell's palsy. A diagnosis of exclusion.
abstract: In cases of acute unilateral facial weakness, a careful and systematic evaluation is necessary to identify the cause. Idiopathic facial paralysis (Bell's palsy) is a diagnosis of exclusion. It is also the most common cause of unilateral facial weakness seen by primary care physicians. The most important aspect of initial treatment is eye protection. Administration of systemic oral corticosteroids may lessen severity and duration of symptoms.
authors.affiliation: Eye and Ear Institute of Pittsburgh, PA 15213.
authors.forename: G J
authors.initials: GJ
authors.lastname: Petruzzelli
authors.forename: B E
authors.initials: BE
authors.lastname: Hirsch
mesh_terms: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing; D004576:Electromyography; D005071:Evoked Potentials; D005135:Eye Protective Devices; D005158:Facial Paralysis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed
chemical_list: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones