Facial Paralysis

Reference 530

The facial nerve courses with the auditory nerve, and in a complex pattern through the

ear and mastoid before distributing its fibers to the facial muscles. It also gives off

several branches for functions other than facial motion. Because of the close anatomic

and embryologic association of the facial nerve with the ear (1), physicians should

be aware that facial nerve abnormalities may accompany other ear problems. Such

abnormalities may include paralysis, hemifacial spasm, ear canal pain, taste distortion,

and other problems. Facial paralysis is the most common malady, and physicians

concerned with ear problems should at least be acquainted with this condition.