Cranial nerve palsies

Cranial Nerve Palsies
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Weakness or paralysis of muscles innervated by the affected cranial nerve
Complications	Vision problems, difficulty swallowing, facial asymmetry
Onset	Sudden or gradual
Duration	Varies
Types	N/A
Causes	Trauma, infection, tumors, vascular disorders
Risks	N/A
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, imaging studies
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Depends on underlying cause
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Varies
Frequency	N/A
Deaths	N/A

Cranial nerve palsies refer to a group of disorders characterized by the impairment of one or more of the cranial nerves. These nerves are responsible for motor and sensory functions of the head and neck.

Causes

Cranial nerve palsies can result from a variety of causes, including:

• Trauma
• Infection
• Tumors
• Vascular disorders such as stroke or aneurysm
• Multiple sclerosis
• Diabetes mellitus

Symptoms

The symptoms of cranial nerve palsies depend on which cranial nerve is affected. Common symptoms include:

• Diplopia (double vision)
• Ptosis (drooping of the eyelid)
• Facial paralysis
• Hearing loss
• Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cranial nerve palsies typically involves a thorough clinical examination and may include imaging studies such as MRI or CT scan to identify the underlying cause.

Treatment

Treatment of cranial nerve palsies depends on the underlying cause. Options may include:

• Medication
• Surgery
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy

Prognosis

The prognosis for cranial nerve palsies varies widely depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Some cases may resolve spontaneously, while others may require long-term management.

See also

• Cranial nerves
• Neurology
• Peripheral neuropathy

External links

• Cranial nerve palsies on WikiMD