BIS5130 Week 10 Lecture Part 2 Slides without answers (1)

Definition: Bell's Palsy is a condition characterized by sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face, caused primarily by inflammation of the facial nerve (Cranial Nerve VII).
Presentation: Symptoms typically include facial droop, inability to close the eye, loss of taste, and hyperacusis.

Patient Details: Robert, a 41-year-old civil servant, presented with sudden facial weakness and loss of taste.
Symptoms Prior to Diagnosis: Persistent headaches, tingling sensation in the face, slurred speech, and hyperacusis.

Initial Assessment: Concerns raised regarding potential stroke; ruled out by specialists.
Confirmed Diagnosis: Bell's Palsy.

Loss of Taste: The patient reported loss of taste, particularly with mustard (bitter taste).
Key Point: Taste involves five basic qualities: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami.
Nerve Pathways: Taste signals are transmitted through cranial nerves VII (facial), IX (glossopharyngeal), and X (vagus) to the brain.

Hyperacusis: Robert experienced sensitivity to loud sounds, likely due to affected muscles in the middle ear (tympani and stapedius) that stabilize sound transmission.

Inability to Blink: Difficulty closing the right eye leads to potential keratitis due to exposure of the cornea.
Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea, which can impair vision if untreated.
Potential Impact on Vision from Keratitis: Can lead to blurry vision, discomfort, and long-term damage if not adequately addressed.

Steroid Therapy: Prednisolone prescribed within 72 hours of symptom onset; efficient for improving outcomes.
Eye Care: Eye drops and ointments for dryness; taping the affected eye shut during sleep to prevent keratitis.

Recovery Rates: Approximately 85% of patients recover fully within three weeks; long-term recovery rates are even higher.
Physical Therapy: Recommended if some weakness persists after three months to assist in the recovery of muscle function.

Discuss the effects of Bell's Palsy on sensory functions, including taste, hearing, and vision.
Mention the role of Cranial Nerve VII and the mechanisms by which Bell's Palsy induces sensory dysfunction.
Link known causes (e.g., viral infections) and clarify distinctions from similar conditions (e.g., Guillain-Barré Syndrome).
Provide detailed explanations of sensory pathways (taste receptors and hearing function), impacts of affected cranial nerves, and treatment protocols.