
pmid: 18036410
ObjectiveTo describe the epidemiology, pathophysiology, presentation, treatment, and prognosis of Bell's palsy (BP) in pregnancy.RESULTSThe incidence of BP in pregnant women is not significantly greater than expected compared to all women of childbearing age. There is a high incidence of cases in the third trimester and corresponding low incidence during early pregnancy.CONCLUSIONThere is no conclusive evidence that the etiology of BP in pregnancy is different than in nonpregnant patients. Altered susceptibility to herpes simplex viral reactivation during pregnancy is the most likely explanation for concentration of cases in the third trimester. Outcome may be poorer in pregnant patients, though historically, treatment is often withheld from these patients.SIGNIFICANCEManagement of BP in pregnancy can mirror that of nonpregnant individuals with the exception of first‐trimester cases.
Diagnosis, Differential, Pregnancy, Bell Palsy, Humans, Simplexvirus, Female, Virus Activation, Pregnancy Complications, Infectious, Prognosis, Antiviral Agents
Diagnosis, Differential, Pregnancy, Bell Palsy, Humans, Simplexvirus, Female, Virus Activation, Pregnancy Complications, Infectious, Prognosis, Antiviral Agents
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