[Actual diagnostic problems in facial nerve palsy (author's transl)]

From the great number of diagnostic attempts in facial nerve palsy the main procedures are summerized in this article with an evaluation of their significance. The demonstrated limitations of their clinical relevance should lead to a careful assessment of their results. However, a clinically worthwhile concept for functional and topographical diagnoses can be proposed. In each case of facial nerve palsy it is necessary to exclude all other etiological factors before the diagnose of Bell's palsy is made. The importance of early diagnose is stressed.