Bilateral simultaneous facial nerve palsy

Abstract

We present a case of bilateral simultaneous idiopathic facial nerve palsy. A 64-year-old man presented with peripheral facial palsy on both sides of the face, concurrently, following the onset of a fever of unknown origin. The diagnosis was bilateral simultaneous Bell’s palsy, as there was no evidence of systemic disease. After approximately 2 months of conservative treatment, the patient achieved complete recovery. Simultaneous cases of facial nerve palsy typically have a relatively good prognosis. Therefore, avoiding systemic administration of steroids may be preferable, particularly if an underlying disease is suspected.