Recurrent facial nerve paralysis: an unusual presentation of fibrous dysplasia of the temporal bone

Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2008 Feb;265(2):255-9. doi: 10.1007/s00405-007-0422-x. Epub 2007 Sep 11.

Abstract

Facial nerve paralysis (FNP) is a rare occurrence in fibrous dysplasia (FD) of the temporal bone (FDTB). Eight such cases have been described in the literature. In none of these cases was the FNP the presenting symptom, and in all, a direct etiology for the paralysis was identified. We present the first case of recurrent, unilateral FNP as the sole otological manifestation of FDTB. We discuss possible etiological factors for the paralysis favoring a compressive, transient ischemia of the facial nerve. The authors suggest adding FDTB to the differential diagnosis of recurrent FNP.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / therapeutic use
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Facial Paralysis / diagnosis*
  • Facial Paralysis / physiopathology*
  • Female
  • Fibrous Dysplasia of Bone / complications
  • Fibrous Dysplasia of Bone / diagnosis*
  • Humans
  • Pain / drug therapy
  • Pain / etiology
  • Recurrence
  • Temporal Bone / diagnostic imaging*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal