The value of prognostic clinical data in Bell's palsy.
Electroneurography (ENoG) and clinical staging are currently the methods of choice to indicate prognosis in Bell's palsy, although ENoG is an electrophysiological test not universally available.


OBJECTIVE
Identify other options of prognostic evaluation based upon clinical aspects and minimal electrical stimulation test allowing prognostic measurement in almost any circumstances.


METHODS
Historic cohort.


METHODS
Chart review of 1,521 cases of IPFP, analyzing the following clinical aspects: gender, age, paralyzed side, installation mode, previous symptoms, associated symptoms and minimal electrical stimulation test (Hilger test) and its statistical correlation to facial palsy evolution after 6 months.


RESULTS
Data indicated that patients above 60 years old had worse prognosis in comparison with patients under 30 years old. A progressive mode of paralysis installation, absence of previous symptoms, concomitant vertigo and response superior to 3.5 mA at minimum electrical stimulation test were also related to worse prognosis. On the other hand, the absence of concomitant symptoms, diminished tearing and sudden onset were related to better prognosis.


CONCLUSIONS
Clinical factors and Hilger's test can accurately indicate the prognosis in cases of Bell's palsy when ENoG is not available.
Kasse
Cristiane A
CA
olacruz@uol.com.br
Cruz
Oswaldo Laércio M
OL
Leonhardt
Fernando D
FD
Testa
José Ricardo G
JR
Ferri
Ricardo G
RG
Viertler
Erika Y
EY
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D017677:Age Distribution; D000367:Age Factors; D020330:Bell Palsy / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D015331:Cohort Studies; D018450:Disease Progression; D004558:Electric Stimulation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011379:Prognosis; D012189:Retrospective Studies