Facial nerve palsy occurs when there is damage to the seventh cranial (facial) nerve. It is a type of mononeuropathy. The seventh facial nerve is located in the skull. It controls movement of the muscles of the face. It also affects feeling in the ear canal and the sense of taste.
This type of nerve damage may occur with local growths, such as a tumor, that put pressure on the facial nerve.
An examination will show facial drooping on one side of the face or just on the forehead, eyelid, or mouth. Examination of the eardrum may show fluid-filled sacs (vesicles).
A blood test may be done to check for Lyme disease. Other tests may include:
Tests to rule out a stroke or other nervous system problems
Review Date: 2/6/2008
Reviewed By: Daniel Kantor, MD, Director of the Comprehensive MS Center, Neuroscience Institute, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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Neuromuscular Disorders (e.g., ALS/Lou Gehrig's Disease)
