Clinical prognostic factors in patients with idiopathic peripheral facial nerve paralysis (Bell’s palsy)

Objective.  The aim of this study was to analyse the clinical prognostic factors that are associated with treatment outcomes in patients with idiopathic peripheral facial nerve paralysis (PFNP).  Methods.  The study was performed retrospectively with 80 patients in a tertiary medical center. All of the patients were treated and followed for idiopathic PFNP (Bell’s palsy). The patient charts were reviewed for patient demographics and characteristics. The comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes mellitus), the side, grade and duration of palsy, and the acoustic stapedius reflex were analysed.  Results.  Forty-three male and 37 female patients were diagnosed with idiopathic PFNP. Sixty-seven of patients had complete, 13 patients had partial recovery. Of the partial recoveries, 12 patients had Grade 2 and one patient Grade 3 PFNP at the end of primary treatment. Patients tended to have incomplete recovery if they have a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, but the difference between groups was not statistically significant ( p =0.326). A positive stapedius reflex was associated with complete recovery ( p =0.023). Patients had much more risk of incomplete recovery if age is more than 40 years ( p =0.006).  Conclusion.  A detailed history and complete physical examination are very important in peripheral facial palsy. Co-morbid diseases and demographic features such as high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus and advanced age might influence the treatment outcomes.