Serum Magnesium Concentration in Patients With Bell's Palsy: A Case-Control Study.

Introduction

Some conditions such as hyperglycemia, preeclampsia, migraine, inflammation, oxidative stress, and peripheral neuropathy are associated with magnesium deficiency and Bell's palsy. To date, however, studies have not addressed serum magnesium concentration in patients with Bell's palsy. In this article, we hypothesized that these patients may have a decreased serum magnesium concentration compared to healthy controls. Materials and

Methods

In the study, a total of 24 patients with Bell's palsy and 24 healthy individuals matched were investigated. Atomic absorption spectrometry was used to determine serum magnesium concentration. The groups were then statistically compared for demographics and serum magnesium concentration.

Results

No significant differences were found between Bell's palsy patients and healthy controls in age (P = .846), sex (P = 1.0), and body mass index (P = .410). However, patients with Bell's palsy had significantly lower serum magnesium levels (µg/dL) compared to healthy controls [11.44 ± 1.54 (8.9-15.8)] versus [27.35 ± 2.82 (24.3-36.2); (P < .001)].

Conclusions

Our results suggest an association between decreased serum magnesium concentration and Bell's palsy. However, this is the first study on the topic and its limitations should be considered.