Bell palsy

Case contributed by Andrew Lawson
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Left facial weakness for a few days.

Patient Data

Age: 50-55
Gender: Male
mri

Post contrast scans show vivid enhancement in the distal intracanalicular portion of the left facial nerve continuous with vivid enhancement in the left geniculate ganglion, which is slightly enlarged. Contrast enhancement then extends anteriorly into the left greater superficial petrosal nerve and posteriorly into the descending intrapetrous portion of the left facial nerve. No pathological enhancement detected elsewhere. In particular, no pial enhancement detected.

Case Discussion

MRI appearances are in keeping with those seen in isolated Bell's palsy.

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