Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 25, 2026
19:53
Single-stage Dynamic Reanimation of the Smile in Irreversible Facial Paralysis by Free Functional Muscle Transfer
Published on: March 1, 2015
Tick induced facial palsy.
M M Patil1, B N Walikar, S S Kalyanshettar
1Department of Paediatrics, BLDE Universitys Shri BM Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Bijapur, Karnataka, India. mmp076@yahoo.com
Indian Pediatrics
|February 10, 2012
Summary
A tick infestation in a child's ear caused sudden facial palsy. Prompt tick removal led to a complete recovery of facial nerve function within a week.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Facial palsy can arise from various causes, including infections and inflammatory conditions.
- Tick-borne illnesses are a potential, though less common, etiology for neurological deficits in children.
Observation:
- A pediatric case presented with acute onset left-sided facial palsy.
- The palsy was directly linked to a tick infestation within the affected ear canal.
Findings:
- Successful removal of the tick resulted in the complete resolution of the facial palsy.
- The recovery period was notably short, occurring within seven days post-intervention.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering tick infestations in the differential diagnosis of pediatric facial palsy.
- Early diagnosis and management of tick-related ear conditions can prevent prolonged neurological sequelae.
- Highlights the potential for rapid recovery of facial nerve function once the causative agent is removed.
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