About Familial recurrent peripheral facial palsy

What is Familial recurrent peripheral facial palsy?

Familial recurrent peripheral facial palsy is a rare genetic disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of facial paralysis. It is caused by a mutation in the gene that codes for the protein neurofascin, which is involved in the development and maintenance of the peripheral nervous system. Symptoms of the disorder include facial paralysis, drooping of the eyelids, difficulty speaking, and difficulty eating. Treatment typically involves physical therapy and medications to reduce inflammation and improve nerve function.

What are the symptoms of Familial recurrent peripheral facial palsy?

The main symptom of Familial recurrent peripheral facial palsy is recurrent episodes of facial paralysis. This Paralysis can affect the entire face or just one side. Other symptoms may include:

• Difficulty closing the eye on the affected side

• Drooping of the corner of the mouth

• Difficulty speaking or eating

• Loss of taste sensation on the affected side

• Loss of facial expression on the affected side

• Difficulty raising the eyebrow on the affected side

• Difficulty blowing out the cheeks on the affected side

• Difficulty smiling on the affected side

• Difficulty moving the forehead on the affected side

• Difficulty moving the lower lip on the affected side

• Difficulty moving the jaw on the affected side

• Difficulty moving the tongue on the affected side

• Difficulty moving the eyelids on the affected

What are the causes of Familial recurrent peripheral facial palsy?

The exact cause of familial recurrent peripheral facial palsy is unknown. However, it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Possible causes include:

• Genetic mutations that affect the facial nerve

• Viral infections, such as herpes simplex virus

• Autoimmune disorders, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome

• Trauma to the facial nerve

• Tumors or other growths that press on the facial nerve

• Certain medications, such as aminoglycosides

• Exposure to toxins, such as lead or mercury

What are the treatments for Familial recurrent peripheral facial palsy?

1. Corticosteroid therapy: Corticosteroids are medications that can reduce inflammation and help reduce the symptoms of facial palsy.

2. Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help improve facial muscle strength and coordination.

3. Botulinum toxin injections: Botulinum toxin injections can help reduce muscle spasms and improve facial symmetry.

4. Surgery: Surgery may be recommended in some cases to help improve facial symmetry.

5. Electrical stimulation: Electrical stimulation can help improve facial muscle strength and coordination.

6. Speech therapy: Speech therapy can help improve speech and swallowing difficulties associated with facial palsy.

What are the risk factors for Familial recurrent peripheral facial palsy?

1. Family history of recurrent peripheral facial palsy
2. Age (more common in children)
3. Gender (more common in males)
4. Immunodeficiency
5. Viral infections
6. Trauma to the facial nerve
7. Autoimmune disorders
8. Diabetes
9. Lyme disease
10. Sarcoidosis

Is there a cure/medications for Familial recurrent peripheral facial palsy?

There is no cure for familial recurrent peripheral facial palsy, but medications can be used to help manage the symptoms. These medications include corticosteroids, antiviral drugs, and botulinum toxin injections. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help improve facial muscle strength and coordination.