1. Facial nerve neuritis secondary to ultraviolet radiation
- Author
-
Bryant, SM, Cumpston, K, Mycyk, MB, Leikin, JB, Rezak, M, and Pallasch, E
- Subjects
Dermatitis -- Causes of ,Neuralgia, Facial -- Causes of ,Facial nerve -- Injuries ,Environmental issues ,Health ,Pharmaceuticals and cosmetics industries - Abstract
Background: Dermatitis has frequently been described as a consequence to ultraviolet (UV) exposure. We describe a patient who developed facial nerve injury following significant exposure to UV radiation. Case Report: A 49 year-old construction worker developed erythema and edema on the left side of his face (exposed side) 12 hours after working within 18inches of a metal halide incandescent light bulb for a total of 2 hours. The outer envelope of this 400 watt bulb had been broken and the filaments were reattached by an electrician. A mid-left facial bum resolved over the next 2 days. One month later, the patient noted a painful burning sensation over the left side of his face associated with marked left facial weakness and inability to close his eye (peripheral VIIth nerve palsy). A CT scan of the brain and a comprehensive urinalysis for heavy metals were normal. Pain was controlled with gabapentin. 2 months later, synkinetic left facial movements were noted (suggesting aberrant regeneration). Over the next several months, forceful episodic spasmodic activity developed in the muscles of facial expression on the left, identical to that seen in hemifacial spasm. Conclusion: Rarely has UV radiation been implicated in damage to subcutaneous nerves. This case demonstrates that significant neurologic morbidity may follow high exposure to UV radiation., Bryant SM, Cumpston K, Mycyk MB, Leikin JB, Rezak M, Pallasch E. Toxikon Consortium-Cook County Hospital, University of Illinois at Chicago, Omega ENH, Illinois Poison Center, Department of Neurology ENH, [...]
- Published
- 2002