Bell's palsy is defined as an isolated unilateral lower motor neurone facial weakness of no obvious cause. It is the most common cause for acute facial nerve (VII cranial nerve) paralysis. The incidence has been estimated at around 20 to 25 cases per 100 000 population annually but the exact incidence in children is not known. It manifests as unilateral impairment of movement in the facial muscles, drooping of the brow and corner of the mouth, and impaired closure of the eye and mouth. Acute lower motor neurone facial paralysis is a common presentation in childhood. In most cases, an aetiological agent is not identified and the condition resolves spontaneously. We have reviewed the available literature for Bell's Palsy in children, along with in-depth evidence review for use of steroids and aciclovir in this condition.
Bell's Palsy, Facial paralysis, Lower motor neurone, Magnetic resonance imaging, Steroids and Acyclovir.