Outcome of Facial Palsy from Lyme Disease in Prospectively Followed Patients Who Had Received Corticosteroids

Although a short course of corticosteroid therapy has been shown to improve the outcome of idiopathic facial nerve palsy (Bell's palsy), it is unclear whether corticosteroids, in addition to antibiotic therapy, are beneficial, harmful or have no impact on the outcome of facial palsy from Lyme disease (LDFP). From 2011 through 2016, 14 patients with LDFP were enrolled into a prospective study to determine the outcome of Lyme disease over the ensuing 12months. Eleven (78.6%) had received corticosteroids in addition to oral antibiotics and entered the study within 24days after onset of the LDFP (median 14days, range 2 –24days).

Source: Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease - April 4, 2018 Category: Microbiology Authors: Gary P. Wormser, N.P. Donna McKenna, R.N. Carol Scavarda, Carol Karmen Source Type: research