Facial Palsy
摘要
Facial palsy (FP) is an acute neuromotor disorder affecting the function of the seventh cranial nerve (i.e., facial nerve) and manifested as hemifacial paralysis. Regular oral functions, including eating, drinking, speaking, and other activities, such as eye blinking and eyebrow raising, are also affected leading to a compromised quality of life. Despite the categorization of FP as an idiopathic disorder, many pathoetiologic factors have been reported. Based on the chronicity and severity of the condition, various treatment modalities have been employed, including systemic corticosteroids, antiviral medications, acupuncture, physiotherapy, and facial muscles exercises. Photobiomodulation (PBM) in combination with other treatment modalities (e.g., physiotherapy) has been tested in few interventional investigations with promising results being reported. Therefore, a multidisciplinary interventional approach that includes a standardized PBM protocol for management of cases of FP is to be developed and followed.