[Evaluation with blink reflex of bilateral facial palsy]

Abstract

We examined the accuracy of electroneuronography (ENoG) and blink reflex as prognostic indicators in four patients with bilateral facial palsy. Electrophysiological investigation consisted of the recording of ENoG amplitude and R1 amplitude of blink reflex elicited by the peripheral nerve stimulation. Examinations were performed at the first visit, after 10 days, 2, 4 and 6 weeks. ENoG amplitude was less reliable for the neurological evaluation of bilateral facial palsy, because in three cases amplitude ratio of affected side to the other side was more than 100%. R1 amplitude of blink reflex recovered satisfactorily in two cases of good outcome. In other two cases of poor outcome, R1 amplitude was absent during the examination period. These findings suggest that analysis of blink reflex provides valuable information for evaluation of the prognosis of patients with bilateral facial palsy.