[Virological investigations in peripheral idiopathic facial pareses (author's transl)]

Virological investigations were carried out on the serum of 62 patients suffering from peripheral facial pareses. The aetiology was definitely attributable to a virus infection in 12 of these cases. Neuropathological changes induced by these neurotropic viruses, predisposing anatomical features and pathogenesis are discussed. Since only symptomatic treatment is possible, the importance of active immunization, where available, is stressed in the prevention of virus diseases; a decrease in morbidity could lead to a reduction in neurological complications.