BELL'S PALSY AMONG INFANTS - OUR EXPERIENCES IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL OF EASTERN INDIA

Objectiv:The most common etiology of unilateral facial palsy is Bell's palsy, also called as idiopathic facial palsy. Bell's palsy in infant is rare and an uncommon clinical entity and often taken as pediatric emergency by parents. Paralysis of facial nerve has a tremendous impact on patient as well as parents particularly when a pediatric patient is affected. It is regarded as a diagnosis of exclusion. Bell's palsy in infants is rare than adults and diagnosis is made on the basis of exclusion.Aim and Objectives:Clinical diagnosis and management of Bell's palsy among infants from a tertiary care hospital of eastern India.Material and Methods:In this prospective study, we have documented detail clinical manifestation and management of infants of Bell's palsy from the pediatric age group. When an infant presents with facial nerve paralysis, a full clinical history and detailed examination were recommended for accurate diagnosis.  Simultaneously, the parents were reassured and the prognosis was explained to the parents. Oral steroids along with physiotherapy were started in the outdoor basis.Results:We diagnosed six infants of Bell's palsy in age group of 5 months to 12 months. Among them 4 females and rest 3 were male. These Infants showed improvement with complete recovery in 83% cases within 3 weeks whereas partial recovery was seen in rest.Conclusion:In this study, we find out that, oral steroids along with physiotherapy and eye care are effective for Bell's palsy in infants.Keywords:Bell's palsy, infant, facial nerve, oral steroid