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Single-stage Dynamic Reanimation of the Smile in Irreversible Facial Paralysis by Free Functional Muscle Transfer
Published on: March 1, 2015
Facial nerve palsy and Kawasaki disease
Abdullah Kocabaş1, Fırat Kardelen, Bilge Aldemir-Kocabaş
1Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey, dr.akocabas@gmail.com.
Insights
Kawasaki Disease (KD) can cause serious heart problems. Facial nerve palsy in infants may signal severe KD and increased risk of coronary artery aneurysms.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric rheumatology
- Cardiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Kawasaki Disease (KD) is a critical vasculitic illness affecting children.
- Coronary artery aneurysms are the most severe complication, leading to acquired heart disease.
- Facial nerve palsy is a potential indicator of severe KD and cardiac risk.
Observation:
- An 8-month-old infant presented with left-sided facial nerve palsy.
- The infant was diagnosed with Kawasaki Disease.
Findings:
- The infant exhibited multiple coronary artery aneurysms.
- Facial nerve palsy was associated with coronary artery involvement in this case.
Implications:
- Facial nerve palsy may serve as an early warning sign for severe KD.
- Prompt recognition and management are crucial for preventing cardiac complications.
- Further research is needed to understand the link between facial nerve palsy and KD severity.
Abstract:
Kawasaki Disease (KD) is a vasculitic disease and can affect any organ system in the body. The development of coronary artery aneurysms is the most common and life threatening complication of KD and makes this disease the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children in the developed world. Facial nerve palsy has been reported as a possible marker of more severe disease and increased risk of coronary artery involvement in KD. Herein, the authors report an 8-mo-old infant who had left sided facial nerve palsy and multiple coronary aneurysms associated with KD.
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