[Peripheral facial paralysis associated with anti-tetanic serotherapy: a case report]

Peripheral facial paralysis (PFP) is a frequent symptom, idiopathic forms predominate. Toxin-related PFP was not common pathology and apparently has not been documented in the literature.

We report a case of sudden-onset PFP which resolved rapidly in a patient given tetanic anti-serotherapy for a wound of the lower limb. Physical examination and search for a cause were unable to establish a specific etiology. The clinical course of this case of PFP (rapid regression from the fifth day and total resolution at the twentieth) was compatible with a toxic cause, although a frigorecannot be excluded.

Although generally idiopathic, peripheral facial paralysis can result from a toxic cause (drug, industrial toxic, narcotic). The direct causal mechanism is often difficult to establish. History taking and imaging, particularly magnetic resonance imaging, are helpful in ruling out other causes (inflammation, tumor).