Treatment of recent facial nerve damage with lagophthalmos, using a semistandardized steroid regimen

Twenty-seven patients with borderline leprosy and facial nerve damage of less than or equal to 6 months duration (36 eyes) were treated with a semistandardized regimen of steroids (the average starting dose was 25-30 mg, duration 5-6 months) on an outpatient basis. Red and raised reactive patches were usually present in the upper malar area or around the eye(s) in patients with recent lagophthalmos. The lid gap was measured in millimetres during gentle and strong closure. After completion of the steroid course 75% of the eyes had complete closure or only a slight gap of less than or equal to 2 mm on gentle closure. Steroids were found to be beneficial and safe, in the dosage that we prescribed.