Facial baroparesis secondary to middle-ear over-pressure: a rare complication of scuba diving.
A facial nerve palsy, as a result of middle-ear high pressure, is a rare complication of sub-aqua diving. It may occur as a result of an acute pressure change in the middle ear during ascent in those patients who have experienced difficulty equalizing their middle-ear pressure during the prior descent. We present the case history of this occurring in a 21-year-old diver and discuss the pathophysiology, management and the previous literature. The correct diagnosis of this condition is important if unnecessary, and potentially hazardous, recompression treatment is to be avoided.
Hyams
A F
AF
University of Bristol, School of Medical Sciences, University Walk, Bristol, UK.
Toynton
S C
SC
Jaramillo
M
M
Stone
L R
LR
Bryson
P J
PJ
D000328:Adult; D001469:Barotrauma / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis; D004242:Diving / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004432:Ear, Middle / Q000503:physiopathology; D005158:Facial Paralysis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans