Rare forms of facial neuropathy (historical review)

Abstract

Discussion of the function of the cranial nerves implies the anatomical features of the nerves, their stem nuclei. In clinical practice, it is important to identify the symptoms of damage to the supranuclear parts of the motor and sensory systems. Following the general pattern that characterizes the location of the fibers, neurological symptoms occur on the same or opposite side. Due to the nature of the passage, signs of involvement of some brain tracts and nuclei of cranial nerves are rarely diagnosed. Aim: to present a description of rare clinical and anatomical variants of facial nerve lesions (according to the literature). Materials and methods. The features of the location of the structures of the cranial nerves’ nuclei and the passage of corticonuclear, pyramidal fibers with the determination of their role in the occurrence of neurological manifestations of mimic muscles dysfunction were analyzed. Results. A detailed study of clinical, neurological symptoms, generalization of anamnesis data and laboratory parameters will allow a practical doctor to diagnose and carry out effective treatment for various types of facial muscle innervation disorders. Conclusion. The features of cranial innervation, in particular, mimic muscles, has important anatomical features. The analysis of the available literature data and the presented results, reflecting the location of the conduction structures and clusters of peripheral motor neurons of the brainstem, allows for a detailed differential diagnosis of damage at different levels.