Photobiomodulation in the Treatment of Bell's Palsy: An Integrative Review / Fotobiomodulación en el Tratamiento de la Parálisis de Bell: una Revisión Integradora

Bell's palsy is defined as a lower motor neuron palsy that develops from a non-suppurative inflammation of the facial nerve at the stylomastoid foramen. The objective of this integrative review was to determine the effects of photobiomodulation as a therapeutic method for Bell's palsy. This qualitative study provided a broader understanding of the subject studied. Searches for articles were carried out in PubMed databases via Medline, LILACS, IBES, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and CENTRAL using MeSH and DeCS descriptors to determine the search terms. A total of 143 articles were found. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 7 articles were included. Therefore, it can be concluded that the application of low-level laser in the treatment of Bell's palsy is effective since the studies indicated significant and relevant improvements for the recovery of these patients when associating the laser with other types of treatments.

La parálisis de Bell se define como una parálisis de la neurona motora inferior que se desarrolla a partir de una inflamación no supurativa del nervio facial en el agujero estilomastoideo. El objetivo de esta revisión integradora fue determinar los efectos de la fotobiomodulación como método terapéutico para la parálisis de Bell. Este estudio cualitativo proporcionó una comprensión más amplia del tema estudiado. Las búsquedas de artículos se realizaron en las bases de datos PubMed a través de Medline, LILACS, IBES, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase y CENTRAL utilizando los descriptores MeSH y DeCS para determinar los términos de búsqueda. Se encontraron un total de 143 artículos. Después de aplicar los criterios de inclusión y exclusión, se incluyeron 7 artículos. Por tanto, se puede concluir que la aplicación de láser de baja intensidad en el tratamiento de la parálisis de Bell es eficaz debido a que los estudios indicaron mejoras significativas y relevantes para la recuperación de estos pacientes al asociar el láser a otro tipo de tratamientos.

Laser acupuncture in the treatment of neuropathies in dentistry: a systematic review.

Laser acupuncture can be used to treat neurosensory alterations and motor disorders caused by dental treatments. This study aimed to review the existing literature on the effects of laser acupuncture on neuropathies in the context of dentistry and to search for treatment modalities in which this technique is used. This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Cochrane Collaboration guidelines and the PICOS strategy. Randomized clinical trials that evaluated laser acupuncture as a primary intervention for facial neuropathy were included. We searched the database for relevant studies and manually searched the gray literature until April 2022, and finally included four studies. The study was considered eligible if it included patients with paresthesia, facial paralysis, or neuralgia, neuropathies within dentistry, and referred to the application of laser acupuncture as a treatment method. The risk of bias was assessed using the RoB 2 tool. It was observed that the recommended wavelengths ranged from 790 nm to 810 nm, with a frequency of at least two applications per week, and to a greater or lesser degree, all evaluated studies obtained an improvement in sensory or motor recovery of the facial nerves. The use of laser acupuncture presented itself as a viable alternative in dentistry for the treatment of paresthesia and facial paralysis due to its therapeutic potential in neuropathic treatment (CRD42022344339).

Surgical Treatment Outcome for Familial Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome.

BACKGROUND Recurrent facial nerve palsy, orofacial edema, and fissured tongue are a triad of manifestations that characterize a rare disorder named Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome. It is important to consider this syndrome when diagnosing atypical, unilateral, or bilateral facial palsies with characteristics of familial prevalence. There is no established outcome prediction for this disease and the syndrome does not have a specific duration or prospective timeline. Recurrent facial paralysis can require surgery and a multidisciplinary approach with regular follow-up. CASE REPORT We describe a 38-year-old woman presenting with a third episode of facial paralysis and discuss her pedigree chart and the treatment course chosen. After conservative treatment with oral corticosteroids, antiviral therapy, and motor physical therapy with no significant improvements, the patient underwent facial nerve decompression surgery with outstanding results. Eight months after surgery and intense postoperative physical therapy, the patient improved from grade VI to grade II palsy on the House-Brackmann Scale. The patient's older brother also presented a fissured tongue and had a history of 2 episodes of facial paralysis. The patient's son, mother, and sister also presented tongue fissuring but did not have any other clinical signs of the syndrome. CONCLUSIONS Despite being rare, Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome is associated with a family inheritance and its diagnosis has prognostic implications. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to have suspicion of this disorder in order to improve quality of care and target the treatment accordingly. Surgical treatment in these cases seems to be an excellent choice to treat current facial paralysis and prevent further episodes.

Prognostic role of neutrophil lymphocyte ratio and mean platelet volume in Bell's palsy: Comparison of diabetic and non-diabetic patients.

OBJECTIVES: A low Neutrophil Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) has been shown to be associated with good prognosis in Bell's Palsy (BP). However, the effect of chronic diseases that may affect the NLR, including Diabetes Mellitus (DM), has not been clarified in this context. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between NLR and Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) in BP according to whether it is accompanied by DM, and their relationship with prognosis. METHODS: A prospective observational study was conducted from May 2014 to May 2020 in a tertiary referral center, of all 79 consecutive participants diagnosed with BP in department of otolaryngology and 110 consecutive healthy participants admitted to the check-up unit. Patients diagnosed with BP were divided into two groups according to whether they were diagnosed with DM: diabetic BP patients (DM-BP, n = 33) and non-diabetic BP patients without any chronic disease (nonDM-BP, n = 46). Neutrophil (NEUT) and Lymphocyte (LYM) counts, and Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) were assessed from peripheral blood samples, and the NLR was calculated. Prognosis was evaluated using the House-Brackmann Score (HBS) six months after diagnosis. RESULTS: The mean NLR was 2.85 ±â€¯1.85 in BP patients and 1.69 ±â€¯0.65 in the control group. The mean NLR was significantly higher in BP patients than healthy controls (p < 0.001). The mean NLR was 2.58 ±â€¯1.83 in the nonDM-BP group, 3.23 ±â€¯1.83 in the DM-BP group, and 1.69 ±â€¯0.65 in the control group. The NLR was significantly higher in the nonDM-BP and DM-BP groups than in the control group (p < 0.05). The recovery was 90% according to the HBS. The optimal cut-off value was 2.41 (p = 0.5). CONCLUSION: The NLR was increased in both diabetic and non-diabetic BP and had similar prognostic value in predicting the HBS before treatment in diabetic and non-diabetic patients with BP. MPV wasn't significantly different in diabetic and non-diabetic BP patients compared with the normal population.

[Bell's Palsy Secondary to COVID-19 Vaccine Pfizer: Case report]. / Parálisis de Bell secundaria a vacuna Pfizer para COVID-19: reporte de caso.

Background: BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) is a nucleosidemodified mRNA vaccine formulated with lipid nanoparticles for the prevention of COVID-19 disease caused by SARSCoV-2 infection. In early December 2020, BNT162b2 received an emergency use authorization, initial efficacy and safety data have been released, consumer / patient information sheets for vaccines distributed in North America do not warn of Bell's palsy as a possible adverse effect. We reported the case of a patient who developed Bell's palsy on the right side in less than 3 hours after the application of the first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. Clinical case: 32-year-old latina woman who developed right facial paralysis after receiving the first dose of the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine on April 7, 2021; with right facial paresis, absence of forehead wrinkles, lip-buccal sulcus and nasolabial fold; spasms of the facial and periorbital muscles, laterocervical pain; possible etiologies were ruled out, prednisone, gabapentin and topiramate. CT without alterations, achieving gradual improvement; until full functional recovery after 15 days. With benign evolution, congruent with the natural history of the disease, classifying it as idiopathic Bell's palsy. Conclusions: Although a causal relationship cannot be established, the time and mode of appearance of the paralysis suggested a relationship with the application of the BNT162b2 vaccine. Given the recommendation of the health authorities to monitor the cases of Bell's palsy, and the surveillance of events supposedly attributable to vaccination (ESAVI) and as it is the first case reported in the literature, in the mexican population, we believe that this case should be shared with the scientific community in a timely manner.

Introducción: la BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) es una vacuna de ARNm modificado con nucleósidos y formulada con nanopartículas lipídicas para la prevención de la enfermedad covid-19 causada por la infección por SARS-CoV-2. A principios de diciembre del 2020, la BNT162b2 recibió una autorización para su uso de emergencia. Se han publicado datos iniciales de eficacia y seguridad, sin embargo las hojas de información para el consumidor/paciente para vacunas distribuidas en América del Norte no advierten sobre la parálisis de Bell como un posible efecto adverso. Informamos el caso de una mujer que desarrolló parálisis de Bell posterior a la aplicación de la primera dosis de la vacuna Pfizer-BioNTech. Caso clínico: mujer latina de 32 años que desarrolló parálisis facial derecha después de recibir la primera dosis de la vacuna ARNm BNT162b2 el 7 de abril de 2021; con paresia facial derecha, ausencia de arrugas en la frente, surco labio-bucal y pliegue nasolabial, así como espasmos de los músculos faciales y periorbitarios y dolor latero-cervical. Se descartaron posibles etiologías, se le indicó prednisona, gabapentina y topiramato, con TAC de cráneo simple sin alteraciones, logrando mejoría paulatina hasta la recuperación completa funcional a los 15 días, con evolución benigna, congruente con la evolución natural de la enfermedad, clasificándola como parálisis de Bell idiopática. Conclusiones: aunque no se puede establecer una relación causal, el momento y el modo de aparición de la parálisis sugieren fuertemente la relación con la aplicación de la vacuna BNT162b2. Dada la recomendación de las autoridades sanitarias de vigilar los casos de parálisis de Bell, y la vigilancia de eventos supuestamente atribuibles a la vacunación (ESAVI), se trata del primer caso reportado en la literatura en población mexicana, por lo que consideramos que debe compartirse con la comunidad científica de manera oportuna.

Parálisis de Bell secundaria a vacuna Pfizer para COVID-19: reporte de caso / Bell's Palsy Secondary to COVID-19 Vaccine Pfizer: Case report

Introducción: la BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) es una vacuna de ARNm modificado con nucleósidos y formulada con nanopartículas lipídicas para la prevención de la enfermedad covid-19 causada por la infección por SARS-CoV-2. A principios de diciembre del 2020, la BNT162b2 recibió una autorización para su uso de emergencia. Se han publicado datos iniciales de eficacia y seguridad, sin embargo las hojas de información para el consumidor/paciente para vacunas distribuidas en América del Norte no advierten sobre la parálisis de Bell como un posible efecto adverso. Informamos el caso de una mujer que desarrolló parálisis de Bell posterior a la aplicación de la primera dosis de la vacuna Pfizer-BioNTech.Caso clínico: mujer latina de 32 años que desarrolló parálisis facial derecha después de recibir la primera dosis de la vacuna ARNm BNT162b2 el 7 de abril de 2021; con paresia facial derecha, ausencia de arrugas en la frente, surco labio-bucal y pliegue nasolabial, así como espasmos de los músculos faciales y periorbitarios y dolor latero-cervical. Se descartaron posibles etiologías, se le indicó prednisona, gabapentina y topiramato, con TAC de cráneo simple sin alteraciones, logrando mejoría paulatina hasta la recuperación completa funcional a los 15 días, con evolución benigna, congruente con la evolución natural de la enfermedad, clasificándola como parálisis de Bell idiopática.Conclusiones: aunque no se puede establecer una relación causal, el momento y el modo de aparición de la parálisis sugieren fuertemente la relación con la aplicación de la vacuna BNT162b2. Dada la ecomendación de las autoridades sanitarias de vigilar los casos de parálisis de Bell, y la vigilancia de eventos upuestamente atribuibles a la vacunación (ESAVI), se trata del primer caso reportado en la literatura en población mexicana, por lo que consideramos que debe compartirse con la comunidad científica de manera oportuna.

Background: BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) is a nucleosidemodified mRNA vaccine formulated with lipid nanoparticles for the prevention of COVID-19 disease caused by SARSCoV-2 infection. In early December 2020, BNT162b2 received an emergency use authorization, initial efficacy and safety data have been released, consumer / patient information sheets for vaccines distributed in North America do not warn of Bell's palsy as a possible adverse effect. We reported the case of a patient who developed Bell's palsy on the right side in less than 3 hours after the application of the first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. Clinical case: 32-year-old latina woman who developed right facial paralysis after receiving the first dose of the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine on April 7, 2021; with right facial paresis, absence of forehead wrinkles, lip-buccal sulcus and nasolabial fold; spasms of the facial and periorbital muscles, laterocervical pain; possible etiologies were ruled out, prednisone, gabapentin and topiramate. CT without alterations, achieving gradual improvement; until full functional recovery after 15 days. With benign evolution, congruent with the natural history of the disease, classifying it as idiopathic Bell's palsy.Conclusions: Although a causal relationship cannot be established, the time and mode of appearance of the paralysis suggested a relationship with the application of the BNT162b2 vaccine. Given the recommendation of the health authorities to monitor the cases of Bell's palsy, and the surveillance of events upposedly attributable to vaccination (ESAVI) and as it is the first case reported in the literature, in the mexican population, we believe that this case should be shared with the scientific community in a timely manner.

Prevalence of herpes zoster virus reactivation in patients diagnosed with Bell's palsy.

OBJECTIVE: Herpes zoster virus can cause inflammatory neuropathy of the facial nerve. However, studies evaluating the prevalence of this agent in peripheral facial palsy are heterogeneous regarding sample group selection, laboratory analysis method and variables studied. In addition, there are a lack of epidemiological data in the Brazilian population on this serological phenomenon in peripheral facial palsy. This study estimated herpes zoster reactivation prevalence in serological samples through chemiluminescence immunoassay for quantitative determination of specific antibodies directed against the virus. METHODS: This cross-sectional study sought to determine the prevalence of viral reactivation by herpes zoster in subjects with idiopathic peripheral facial palsy through analysis of serological samples over a year. RESULTS: Forty-seven patients (32 females and 15 males) participated. Severe paralysis was more common in older patients (p = 0.017). Facial pain (p = 0.02) and vertigo (p = 0.001) were related to a worse evolution of facial palsy. The rate of serological reactivation of the virus was 12.76 per cent. CONCLUSION: The rate of serological reactivation of herpes virus in idiopathic peripheral facial palsy in our population is similar to foreign literature data, suggesting similar aetiological mechanisms in the genesis of this morbidity.

Belleza mórbida de Landouzy o belleza tísica / Morbid beauty of Landousy or tisic beauty

Con frecuencia los profesionales de la medicina acuden en sus intercambios a imágenes de los textos clásicos, o estas son las que los profesores nos dejaron en algún momento como huellas indelebles, aunque tal vez no hayamos tenido en todas las ocasiones una representación exacta, de las terribles enfermedades que dieron origen a dichas sentencias, por ser ya poco frecuentes en nuestro ámbito.En la jerga médica, como en otras ciencias, se ha hecho costumbre añadir el nombre de los autores que describieron una enfermedad, un signo clínico, una técnica quirúrgica, o un tratamiento. Así se han etiquetado: parálisis de Bell, bacilo de Koch, posición de Fowler o pinza de Kelly(AU)

Botulinum Toxin Type A to Improve Facial Symmetry in Facial Palsy: A Practical Guideline and Clinical Experience.

Unilateral peripheral facial nerve palsy jeopardizes quality of life, rendering psychological consequences such as low self-esteem, social isolation, anxiety, and depression. Among therapeutical approaches, use of Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) on the nonparalyzed side has shown promising results and improvement of quality of life. Nevertheless, the correct technique is paramount, since over-injection of the muscles can result in lack of function, leading to a "paralyzed" appearance, and even worse, functional incompetence, which may cause greater distress to patients. Therefore, the objective of this article is to provide a practical guideline for botulinum toxin use in facial palsy. To this aim, adequate patient assessment, BoNT-A choice, injection plan and dosage, and injection techniques are covered.

Concomitant Guillain-Barre syndrome with COVID-19: a case report.

BACKGROUND: During the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, different neurological manifestations have been observed. However, only a few cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) and COVID-19 have been reported. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate a case of concomitant GBS with COVID-19 in Colombia. CASE PRESENTATION: A 39-year-old woman was admitted to a teaching hospital in Barranquilla, Colombia with a history of progressive general weakness with lower limb dominance. Previous symptoms such as ageusia, anosmia and intense headache were reported. Upon admission, facial diplegia, quadriparesis with lower extremity predominance and Medical Research Council muscular strength of 2/5 in the lower limbs and 4/5 in the upper limbs were reported. During clinical evolution, due to general areflexia, hypertensive emergency and progressive diaphragmatic weakness, the patient was admitted to an intensive care unit. The cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed protein-cytological dissociation and the GBS diagnosis was confirmed via a nerve conduction and electromyography test. With regard to the symptoms before hospitalisation, SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic testing was performed with positive results in the second test. The patient was managed with supportive care and was discharged after 20 days of hospitalization with clinical improvement. CONCLUSIONS: Only a few cases of COVID-19 with GBS have been reported. Different subtypes have been previously identified, such as Miller-Fisher syndrome and dysautonomic GBS with SARS-CoV-2 infection. This study investigated the first confirmed case of COVID-19 with concomitant GBS in Colombia. In patients with GBS, several viral and bacterial pathogens have been found in case-control studies but the factors that induce the immune-mediated destruction of the nerve tissues have not been determined. Further studies are needed to determine the possible association between COVID-19 exposure and GBS.

Evaluating Quality of Life After Facial Reanimation Using the Facial Clinimetric Evaluation Scale in a Series of Pediatric Patients.

BACKGROUND: Facial palsy can have significant functional and psychological impact. Dynamic facial reanimation methods have provided means of restoration of smile. There remains a dearth of quality of life data in children. The authors aim to assess patient reported outcomes in this underreported population. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed of pediatric patients with facial palsy who had dynamic facial reanimation from 2009 to 2017 at a single institution. Patients were sent a digital Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) questionnaire, a validated tool to assess patient quality of life. FaCE statements are grouped into 6 categories: facial movement, facial comfort, oral function, eye comfort, lacrimal control, and social control. RESULTS: Twenty patients met inclusion criteria. Fourteen successfully completed the survey. With normal function being 100, our cohort scored: facial movement 38.7 ±â€Š14.3; facial comfort 67.3 ±â€Š23, oral function 75 ±â€Š22.7, eye comfort 68.75 ±â€Š18.2, lacrimal control 53.6 ±â€Š32.5, social function 64.3 ±â€Š25.6. The overall FaCE score was 61.07 ±â€Š10.85. The facial movement subscores were lower for brow raise 16.1 ±â€Š33.4 relative to smiling 53.6 ±â€Š29.2 and lip pucker, 46.4 ±â€Š23.7. No correlation was found between facial movement scores and total scores (R2 < 0.01). There was a strong negative correlation between total scores and time since procedure (Spearman's rho R =  -0.45). CONCLUSION: Our pediatric facial reanimation cohort demonstrated excellent social function, in contrast to a relatively lower facial movement score. The low facial movement score was mediated by low score for brow raise and was not correlated to overall FaCE score. Interestingly, overall FaCE score tended to decrease with time from procedure.

Reabilitação fonoaudiológica na paralisia facial periférica: revisão integrativa / Speech-language rehabilitation in peripheral facial paralysis: integrative review

RESUMO Objetivos identificar e analisar a produção científica sobre as estratégias terapêuticas empregadas na reabilitação fonoaudiológica de pessoas com paralisia facial periférica (PFP). Estratégia de pesquisa foi realizada uma revisão integrativa, utilizando-se as bases de dados SciELO, PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect e Portal CAPES. Os descritores foram: paralisia facial e paralisia de Bell, combinados com reabilitação, terapia miofuncional e fonoaudiologia ou seus correlatos em inglês. Critérios de seleção estudos disponíveis na íntegra, que abordaram a reabilitação fonoaudiológica em pessoas com PFP, publicados no período entre 1999 e 2019, em português brasileiro, inglês ou espanhol. Resultados foram identificadas 650 publicações, mas apenas cinco artigos contemplaram os critérios de inclusão propostos. Dentre estes, a SciELO e PubMed obtiveram dois artigos incluídos cada. Além disso, a maioria foi publicada nos últimos dez anos e produzida no Brasil. O português brasileiro foi o idioma de publicação de três dos cinco artigos incluídos, não ocorrendo predominância de um nível de evidência específico. A descrição dos procedimentos utilizados não foi suficientemente detalhada nos estudos. Exercícios isotônicos e isométricos foram abordados mais frequentemente. A bandagem surgiu como recurso terapêutico em um estudo. Conclusão embora haja um grande número de artigos relacionadas à PFP, apenas cinco estudos descreveram procedimentos fonoaudiológicos para pessoas com PFP, com nível de evidência baixo. Portanto, novos estudos abordando o tema são necessários.

ABSTRACT Purpose identify and analyze the scientific production about the therapeutic strategies employed in the speech-language rehabilitation of people with peripheral facial paralysis. Research strategy an integrative review was performed using the SciELO, PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect and Portal CAPES databases. The descriptors were: facial paralysis and Bell's palsy, combined with rehabilitation, myofunctional therapy and Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences or their correlates in english. Selection criteria studies available in their entirety, which addressed speech-language rehabilitation in people with peripheral facial paralysis, published between 1999 and 2019, in Brazilian Portuguese, english or spanish, were selected. Results 650 publications were identified, but only five articles met the proposed inclusion criteria. Among these, SciELO and PubMed obtained two articles included each. In addition, most were published in the last ten years and produced in Brazil. Brazilian Portuguese was the language of publication of three of the five included, with no predominance of a specific level of evidence. The description of the procedures used was not sufficiently detailed in the studies. Isotonic and isometric exercises were approached more frequently. Bandage emerged as a therapeutic resource in one study. Conclusion Although there are a large number of articles related to peripheral facial paralysis, only five studies described speech-language procedures for people with peripheral facial paralysis, with low level of evidence. Therefore, further studies addressing the topic are needed.

Acupuntura y terapia neural para el tratamiento de la Parálisis de Bell / Acupuncture and Neural Therapy for Treating Bell's Palsy

Introducción: La efectividad de las terapias alternativas para el tratamiento de la parálisis de Bell es aún controvertida. Objetivo: Reportar la experiencia en el tratamiento de la PB mediante la administración conjunta de acupuntura y terapia neural. Métodos: Se recopiló información de 30 pacientes con parálisis de Bell, quienes recibieron una sesión semanal de acupuntura y terapia neural de manera conjunta y fueron evaluados mediante la escala House-Brackmann durante 12 semanas. Resultados: El 80 por ciento (24) de los pacientes continuaron el tratamiento hasta la semana 12 y al término de la misma ninguno alcanzó función motora normal. Apenas 6 (25 por ciento) pacientes mostraron signos de recuperación entre las semanas 6 y 12. Así, el porcentaje de pacientes con grado IV se redujo de 6 (20 por ciento) durante la evaluación inicial a 3 (12 por ciento) durante la semana 9 (p = 0,001) y el de pacientes con grado III de 12 (50 por ciento) durante la semana 9 a 9 (38 por ciento) durante la semana 12 (p = 0,663). Se evidenciaron efectos adversos en 9 (32 por ciento) pacientes, lo que incluyó hematoma en el sito de puntura y síncope, que se resolvieron sin complicaciones. Conclusiones: La administración conjunta de acupuntura y terapia neural durante al menos 6 semanas tuvo efectos modestos sobre la recuperación de pacientes con parálisis de Bell sin producir efectos adversos mayores(AU)

Introduction: The effectiveness of alternative therapies for treating Bell's palsy is still controversial. Objective: To report the experience in the treatment of Bell's palsy through joint administration of acupuncture and neural therapy. Methods: Information was collected from 30 patients with Bell's palsy, who received a weekly session of acupuncture and neural therapy jointly and were assessed using the House-Brackmann scale for 12 weeks. Results: 80 percent (24) of the patients continued treatment until week 12 and, at the end of the week, none reached normal motor function. Only 6 patients (25 percent) showed signs of recovery between weeks 6 and 12. Thus, the percentage of patients with grade IV decreased from 6 (20 percent), during the initial evaluation, to 3 (12 percent), during week 9 (p<0.001); while the percentage of patients with grade III decreased from 12 (50 percent), during week 9, to 9 (38 percent), during week 12 (p=0.663). Adverse effects were evidenced in 9 (32 percent) patients, including hematoma at the puncture site and syncope, which was solved without complications. Conclusions: Joint administration of acupuncture and neural therapy for at least six weeks had modest effects on the recovery of patients with Bell's palsy, without producing major adverse effects(AU)

The presence of herpes simplex-1 and varicella zoster viruses is not related with clinical outcome of Bell's Palsy.

Bell's Palsy is the most frequent acute neuropathy of cranial nerves; it has been associated in various reports to herpes viruses. In a prospective study we searched the presence of DNA from five herpes viruses (HSV-1 and 2, VZV, EBV and HHV-6) in 79 patients at the acute phase of Bell's Palsy. Results were related with various parameters; age, gender and clinical outcome. We found the significant presence (p˂0.001) of HSV-1 and VZV in 39% and 42% of patients. However, a large percentage of cases were negative. When comparisons were made between subgroups according to gender and age no differences were found with viral findings nor with clinical outcome of palsy, which was of clinical remission in most cases (78%). Our results suggest that herpes viruses might participate in the complex mechanisms of autoimmunity of Bell's Palsy but not as determinant etiological element.

Herpes viruses in optic neuritis: Similar to Bell's palsy.

OBJECTIVE: Optic Neuritis (ON) might unfold either as a single intracranial neuritis or as multiple sclerosis, a widespread demyelinating disorder. Different herpes viruses have been proposed as potential participants in the etiology of multiple sclerosis (MS). To analyze the potential presence of herpes viruses in blood and subarachnoid area at the time of ON and contrast the findings according to long-term evolution either as intracranial neuritis or as progression to multiple sclerosis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In a prospective investigation we searched the presence of DNA from 5 herpes viruses (HSV-1, HSV-2, VZV, EBV and HHV6) in CSF and blood lymphocytes from 54 patients with ON, patients were followed 62 ±â€¯3 months; those who developed MS were separated from those with ephemeral ON. Long-term prognosis of ON was related to DNA findings. RESULTS: As compared with controls, DNA from HSV-1 was significantly more frequent in CSF and blood from cases with ON; VZV and HSV-2 were found only in CSF; EBV was found only in blood samples (p < 0.006). CONCLUSIONS: Our results point out the potential participation of HSV, VZV and EBV in ON; suggesting the intervention of various herpes viruses as triggering agents of autoimmunity. However, the number of positive cases was minor than negative cases. Also, our results suggest that the etiological mechanisms in ON could be similar to those of neuritis of the facial nerve (Bell's palsy).

La acupuntura, método alternativo en el tratamiento de la parálisis facial periférica de Bell / Acupuncture, an alternative method in the treatment of Bell's peripheral facial palsy

Introducción: La acupuntura es una forma de medicina alternativa basada en la inserción de agujas finas en determinadas partes del cuerpo. Este proceder inocuo, es utilizado en el tratamiento de enfermedades como la parálisis facial periférica de Bell. Esta afección tiene comienzo agudo, cursa con debilidad muscular de una hemicara debida a la afectación del nervio facial ipsilateral y no tiene causa definida. Objetivo: Describir los puntos acupunturales que se utilizan para el tratamiento de esta afección e identificar los beneficios y dificultades que ofrece la técnica. Método: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica de la cual se seleccionaron 20 documentos entre textos, artículos y revistas en formato digitalizado e impreso. Resultados: Se abordaron aspectos generales de la acupuntura, se caracterizó la enfermedad clínicamente y se describió la acupuntura como método alternativo para el tratamiento de la parálisis facial periférica de Bell. Se mencionaron los beneficios y dificultades con su aplicación. Conclusiones: Los puntos acupunturales utilizados en la parálisis facial periférica de Bell parecen ser efectivos como método de tratamiento. La acupuntura es una modalidad terapéutica con resultados beneficiosos en la parálisis facial periférica de Bell.

Laserterapia de baixa potência e paralisia facial periférica: revisão integrativa da literatura. Terapia a laser e Paralisia de Bell / Low level light therapy and peripheral facial paralysis: integrating literature review. Laser therapy and Bell palsy / Laserterapia de baja potencia y paralisia facial periférica: revisión integral de la literatura. Terapia láser y parálisis de Bell

Introdução: A paralisia facial periférica é um distúrbio da motricidade orofacial responsável por trazer impactos negativos em diversos âmbitos na vida dos indivíduos. Entre os profissionais envolvidos no tratamento, o fonoaudiólogo é responsável pelo importante papel de promover a reabilitação das funções orofaciais do indivíduo. Dentre os diversos recursos que este pode utilizar, está o laser de baixa intensidade, ainda pouco investigado na literatura científica. Objetivo: realizar uma revisão integrativa da literatura acerca da utilização e o efeito do laser de baixa intensidade como método terapêutico das paralisias faciais periféricas. Métodos: (1) formulação da pergunta norteadora do estudo "Qual a evidência científica da eficácia, descrita na literatura científica, do uso do laser de baixa intensidade no tratamento da paralisia facial periférica?"; (2) Definição dos descritores, pelo DeCS e MeSH, combinados através do operador booleano AND: Terapia com luz de baixa intensidade; Terapia a laser; Paralisia facial e Paralisia de Bell; (3) Bases de dados PubMed e BIREME; (4) Delimitação dos critérios elegibilidade e (5) coleta e triagem dos artigos. Critérios de Seleção: Utilizar laser como recurso terapêutico e pacientes com paralisia facial em sua metodologia. Resultados: participaram desta revisão 10 artigos que encontraram efeitos positivos da laserterapia utilizando dosagens entre 4 e 105 J/cm2 e comprimentos de onda entre 670 e 1064 nm em um período entre 4 e 20 sessões. Conclusão: os efeitos do laser de baixa potência são benéficos em pacientes acometidos por paralisia facial periférica e potencializam-se quando associados a outros recursos terapêuticos da Fonoaudiologia.

Introduction: Peripheral facial palsy is an orofacial motor disorder that is responsible for bringing negative impacts in different settings in the life of individuals. Among the professionals involved in the treatment, the speech therapist is responsible for the important role of promoting the rehabilitation of the orofacial functions of the individual. Among the several resources that it can use, is the low intensity laser, still little investigated in the scientific literature. Objective: review the use and efficacy of low intensity laser as a therapeutic method for peripheral facial paralysis. Methods: (1) formulation of the guiding question of the study "What is the scientific evidence of efficacy of the use of low frequency laser in the treatment of peripheral facial paralysis? "; (2) Definition of descriptors, by DeCS and MeSH, combined through the Boolean operator AND: Low intensity light therapy; Laser therapy; Facial Paralysis and Bell's Palsy; (3) PubMed and BIREME databases; (4) Delimitation of eligibility criteria and (5) collection and sorting of articles. Selection criteria: Using laser as a therapeutic resource and patients with facial paralysis in their methodology. Results: Ten studies enrolled in this revision found positive effects of laser therapy using laser dosages between 4 and 105 J/cm2 and wavelengths between 670 and 1064 nm in a period between 4 and 20 sessions. Conclusion: the effects of low power laser are benefic in patients with peripheral facial paralysis and potentialized when associated with other therapeutic resources of speech therapy.

Introducción: La parálisis facial periférica es un trastorno de la motricidad orofacial responsable de traer impactos negativos en diversos ámbitos en la vida de los individuos. Entre los profesionales involucrados en el tratamiento, el fonoaudiólogo es responsable del importante papel de promover la rehabilitación de las funciones orofaciales del individuo. Entre los diversos recursos que éste puede utilizar, está el láser de baja intensidad, aún poco investigado en la literatura científica. Objetivo : realizar una revisión integrativa de la literatura acerca de la utilización y el efecto del láser de baja intensidad como método terapéutico de las parálisis faciales periféricas. Metodos: (1) la formulación de la pregunta guía del estudio "¿Cuál es la evidencia científica de su efectividad se describe en la literatura científica, el uso del láser de baja intensidad en el tratamiento de la parálisis facial periférica"; (2) Definición de los descriptores, por el DeCS y MeSH, combinados a través del operador booleano AND: Terapia con luz de baja intensidad; Terapia láser; Parálisis facial y parálisis de Bell; (3) Bases de datos PubMed y BIREME; (4) Delimitación de los criterios elegibles y (5) recolección y clasificación de los artículos. Criterios de selección: Utilizar láser como recurso terapéutico y pacientes con parálisis facial en su metodología. Resultados: Diez estudios incluidos en esta revisión encontraron efectos positivos de la terapia con láser usando dosis de láser entre 4 y 105 J/cm2 y longitudes de onda entre 670 y 1064 nm en un período de entre 4 y 20 sesiones. Conclusión: los efectos del láser de baja potencia son beneficiosos en pacientes con parálisis facial periférica y se potencian cuando se asocian con otros recursos terapéuticos de la terapia del habla.

Bell's Palsy in Pregnancy.

IMPORTANCE: The incidence and severity of Bell's palsy are increased in pregnancy, with most cases arising in the third trimester or postpartum period. It has been indicated that pregnancy-related Bell's palsy has worse long-term outcomes, such as complete facial paralysis, compared with nonpregnant women and males. OBJECTIVE: This article outlines the existing literature diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of Bell's palsy, specifically looking at the implications during pregnancy. The aim is to provide a reference for physicians treating Bell's palsy in pregnant patients. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: Existing literature on neuropathies during pregnancy, clinical presentation, and treatment of Bell's palsy was reviewed through a MEDLINE and PubMed search. Referenced articles were reviewed and used as primary source materials as appropriate. RESULTS: Multiple clinical tests of motor function are used to establish the diagnosis of Bell's palsy including Wartenberg's lid vibration test, an abnormal eyelash occlusion test, and asymmetry with voluntary and spontaneous smiling. Optimal treatment for Bell's palsy remains controversial. While early treatment with corticosteroids for 10 days is highly recommended, the simultaneous use of antiviral therapy is frequently performed but has less supporting evidence. Pregnancy itself and delay in treatment initiation are associated with persistent nerve palsy, whereas treatment started within 3 days of symptom onset is usually associated with full recovery. Recurrence of Bell's palsy in pregnancy is rare. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: To date, there is limited literature in the diagnosis and treatment of Bell's palsy during pregnancy. The prognosis of Bell's palsy in pregnancy is worse than in nonpregnant individuals. Early treatment with steroids is recommended, but not without risk.