## Overview Facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) paralysis results in ipsilateral facial muscle weakness. Classic signs are lip and ear droop, muzzle deviation to the opposite side, feed packing in the cheek, and inability to close the eyelid. Corneal exposure is the most immediate threat to vision. ## Causes Peripheral trauma, compression, or central neurologic disease. ## Diagnosis Neurologic examination. Additional testing if brainstem disease is suspected. ## Treatment Supportive care focused on corneal protection, anti-inflammatories, and time. Treat any underlying cause. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded to fair. Peripheral lesions have a better chance of improvement than central ones. ## Prevention Minimize facial trauma and pressure.
lip droop; ear droop; inability to close eyelid; feed accumulation in cheek; muzzle deviation to unaffected side
## Overview Facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) paralysis results in ipsilateral facial muscle weakness. Classic signs are lip and ear droop, muzzle deviation to the opposite side, feed packing in the cheek, and inability to close the eyelid. Corneal exposure is the most immediate threat to vision. ## Causes Peripheral trauma, compression, or central neurologic disease. ## Diagnosis Neurologic examination. Additional testing if brainstem disease is suspected. ## Treatment Supportive care focused on corneal protection, anti-inflammatories, and time. Treat any underlying cause. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded to fair. Peripheral lesions have a better chance of improvement than central ones. ## Prevention Minimize facial trauma and pressure.
lip droop; ear droop; inability to close eyelid; feed accumulation in cheek; muzzle deviation to unaffected side