Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 6, 2025

Single-stage Dynamic Reanimation of the Smile in Irreversible Facial Paralysis by Free Functional Muscle Transfer
Published on: March 1, 2015
Facial nerve palsy in otitis externa: A red flag?
Aliyya Badaruddin1, May May Choo2
1MB, BCh, BAO, MOphthal, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Necrotizing otitis externa, a severe ear infection, can rarely cause facial palsy. Prompt treatment is vital to prevent complications like this rare presentation in an elderly patient.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Otitis externa is a common external auditory canal infection.
- Necrotizing otitis externa (NOE) is a severe, invasive form with potential for serious complications.
- Facial palsy is a rare but serious complication of NOE.
Observation:
- A case report of an elderly male patient presenting with otitis externa.
- The patient developed facial palsy approximately one month after initial presentation.
- This highlights a rare sequela of otitis externa.
Findings:
- The study identified potential contributing factors to the development of facial palsy in this case.
- Analysis suggests that delayed or inadequate management may increase risk.
- Early recognition and aggressive treatment are key to preventing such complications.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring in patients with otitis externa, especially in the elderly.
- Highlights the need for prompt and comprehensive management of NOE to avert neurological complications.
- Provides insights for preventing facial palsy secondary to invasive ear infections.
Related Concept Videos
Olfactory Receptors: Location and Structure
Cranial Nerves: Types Part II
Facial Nerve (Cranial Nerve VII)
Cranial nerve VII, or the facial nerve,...
Cranial Nerves: Types Part I
Olfactory Nerve (Cranial Nerve I)
The olfactory nerve, or cranial nerve I, is unique as it is purely sensory and dedicated to the sense of smell. This nerve originates in the olfactory epithelium of the...
Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
Cranial Nerves: Overview and Anatomy
Epistaxis
Etiology
Possible causes of this condition include high blood pressure, trauma, low humidity, upper respiratory tract infections, allergies, foreign bodies, nasal inhalation of corticosteroids or illicit drugs, excessive use of decongestant nasal sprays, facial or nasal surgery, anatomic malformation, tumors, or systemic...

