Traumatic isolated unilateral hypoglossal nerve palsy--case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Isolated unilateral hypoglossal nerve palsy may be caused by fracture through the occipital condyle. This is a rare but previously documented event, and can easily go undetected at time of injury, both clinically and radiographically. In addition, there is a potential for late presentation of the palsy. Such cases may present up to several months post injury, and an awareness of this unusual cause may assist the oral surgeon in establishing a diagnosis.