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General practitioners' referral pattern for children with acute facial paralysis
A S El-Hawrani1, C Y Eng, S K Ahmed
1Department of Otolaryngology, Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, UK. hawrani@yahoo.com
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|September 24, 2005
Summary
Most general practitioners (GPs) do not refer children with acute facial paralysis to an otolaryngologist, despite recommendations. This study highlights the need for standardized referral practices for paediatric Bell's palsy.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Paediatric Medicine
- Neurology
Background:
- Paediatric Bell's palsy incidence is lower than in adults, but local referral rates are even lower.
- This discrepancy may stem from general practitioner (GP) referral patterns or regional incidence variations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate GP referral practices for paediatric acute facial paralysis.
- To assess the management of Bell's palsy in children by GPs.
Main Methods:
- Postal questionnaires were distributed to local GPs.
- The study analyzed referral patterns for children with acute facial paralysis.
Main Results:
- 74% of GPs responded to the survey.
- 54% referred to paediatric services, 22% to otolaryngology, and 24% managed independently.
- A significant majority (78%) of GPs did not refer to an otolaryngologist.
Conclusions:
- Most GPs do not refer paediatric acute facial paralysis cases to otolaryngology.
- Minimum investigations for acute facial paralysis in children are suggested.
- Universal otolaryngology referral for all paediatric acute facial paralysis cases is recommended.