Etiology and management of facial palsy.

Palsy of the facial nerve can result in severe debilitation. The physical disfigurement has a disastrous effect on self-image. Asymmetry of facial expression, drooling, and difficulty with speech may occur. Additionally, impaired closure of the eye can result in exposure of the cornea with not only discomfort, but also loss of vision. If the nerve injury is proximal, loss of salivation, lacrimation, and changes in taste can occur. Clearly, an understanding of facial palsy and a framework for management are needed by the clinician who encounters this condition. The recent literature is surveyed for various causes of seventh nerve palsy and for therapeutic modalities available to the physician.