Facial palsy: a multifactorial entity

ABSTRACT

Facial Palsy is not a common condition in Kingston, Jamaica, only 21 cases being treated at the Kingston Hospital between 1958 and 1968. Statistical problems arise as a result of sampling distortion consequent on omission from the diagnotic records because of other overwhelming conditions, no attention being sought for the condition, or the patient being lost to follow-up. The age range is wide. Men were more commonly affected than women and at an older average age. A seasonal incidence has been demonstrated, some 71 percent (15/21) of the cases occurring in the warm season of the year (April to October). Older patients are more commonly affected during the warm months, raising the possibility of a vacular ischaemic process. Other aetiological factors such as exposure to cold, infections of viral or non-viral type, diabetes, and trauma are discussed. Trauma accounting for some 20 percent (4/21) of the cases seemed a particularly high percentage in this Jamaican series. The recovery rate in those followed up was favourable. Onset in summer and early spring appeared to exert a favourable prognostic effect (Summary)