A review of the published data on steroids and idiopathic facial paralysis

Ever since idiopathic facial paralysis (IFP) was first described, several treatments have been tried in an effort to influence early and full recovery. Unfortunately, none of these treatments was effective. After Rothendler's case description in 1951, a multitude of papers have appeared that evaluate the effectiveness of steroids in idiopathic facial paralysis. My presentation reflects a close evaluation of 94 of these papers. Only a few properly controlled, randomized, prospective studies were available. Their main conclusion was that steroid treatment was not more beneficial than conventional treatment. To the contrary, several other less valid prospective and retrospective studies suggest that steroid treatment is beneficial. The definitive, statistically valid study concerning the benefits of steroids in treatment of idiopathic facial paralysis has yet to be performed. Until then, treatment of idiopathic facial paralysis continues to be controversial.