Comparison of Corticotrophin and Prednisolone in Treatment of Idiopathic Facial Paralysis (Bell's Palsy)

Treatment of intratemporal facial palsy

“…Treatment was more effective in the early stage and at a high dosage. The results are in approximate agreement with clinical experience (22,23). It is also clinically known that steroids do not prevent degeneration of the nerve fibers, but reduce the incidence of severe palsy (3).…”

Prednisone in Idiopathic Facial Paralysis (Bell’s Palsy)

“…These authors reported 82% cure (normal function, but also slight paresis and slight asymmetry) instead o f 60% with classical 'treatment' with nicotinic acid, histamine, vitamin B, etc. In the trial by Taverner et al (1971) patients with complete paralysis were admitted up to the 4th day. The schedule of treatment we used (Adour et a l, 1972) differs slightly from theirs.…”

“…o f the upper lips, on forceful closure o f both eyes. Synkinesis as a sequel of facial paralysis merits special attention since it indicates denervation (Taverner et al, 1971). It can be very disturbing for the patient because it attracts the attention o f other people to the disability when speaking or eating (a social handicap).…”

Bell's palsy and its treatment

“…Taverner, Cohen & Hutchinson (1971) have recently compared ACTH with prednisolone therapy in this disorder. Patients were assessed clinically and electromyographically, and only those with a presumed bad prognosis were entered in the trial.…”