Posttraumatic cranial neuropathies

Neurol Clin. 1992 Nov;10(4):849-67.

Abstract

Injury to cranial nerves is a common sequela of blunt head trauma. The olfactory, facial, and audiovestibular nerves are damaged most often, followed by the optic and ocular motor nerves. The trigeminal and lower cranial nerves are rarely involved. Chances of recovery are greatest for the facial nerve, intermediate for the ocular motor nerves, and least likely for the olfactory, optic, and audiovestibular nerves. Treatment is usually symptomatic, although steroids or surgical decompression of the optic and facial nerves can lead to dramatic results in selected patients.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Concussion / diagnosis*
  • Brain Concussion / physiopathology
  • Cranial Nerve Injuries*
  • Cranial Nerves / physiopathology
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Head Injuries, Closed / diagnosis*
  • Head Injuries, Closed / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Nerve Regeneration / physiology
  • Neurologic Examination*
  • Wounds, Penetrating / diagnosis
  • Wounds, Penetrating / physiopathology