Hemifacial spasm

Case contributed by Frank Gaillard
Diagnosis probable
mri

This patient suffered from left hemifacial spasm. Note the left vertebral artery contacting the facial nerve at the nerve root entry zone, making it the likely culprit. 

Annotated image

Annotate image demonstrating the relationship between facial nerve and left vertebral artery. 

Case Discussion

The challenge with cranial nerve compression syndromes is not just identifying a small vessel contacting the nerve root entry zone but also, possibly more importantly, that many many asymptomatic individuals have similar anatomy. 

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.