Incidence and clinical predictors of outcome of Bell’s palsy, Al-Quseir City, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt

Background Bell’s palsy (BP) is one of the most common causes of acute-onset unilateral facial weakness. Through this study we aimed to estimate the incidence of BP in Al-Quseir City, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt. Patients and methods A project was undertaken to assess the epidemiology of major neurological disorders. A total of 33 285 eligible patients were screened through a door-to-door survey (every door) by three specialists in neurology and 15 social workers. All patients were subjected to detailed history taking and a meticulous neurological examination by means of a specific questionnaire designed for this study. Results Within 1 year, 27 patients were diagnosed with BP. This yielded an incidence rate of 98.9/100000 population (aged 9 years and older). The incidence was higher in the male population than in the female population (116.4 and 81.2/100 000, respectively). Age-specific incidence of BP showed that its peak was between the ages of 18 and 60 years. About 78% of patients with BP recovered completely within 6 months after onset. There was no significant difference between male and female patients. Conclusion The incidence rate for BP was 98.9/100 000 among those aged 9 years and older. Most affected cases were older than 18 and less than 60 years.