07/15/2024
In a recent blog for the American Head and Neck Society, I covered facial paralysis resulting from perineural spread (PNS) of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (cSCCHN). A high index of clinical suspicion is critical for detection and prompt treatment. Most cases present with indolent, progressively worsening facial paralysis +/- facial numbness or pain over the span of weeks to months. This presentation distinguishes PNS-related facial palsy from causes of benign paralysis such as Bell’s palsy or Ramsay-Hunt Syndrome, which progress to complete paralysis within 72 hours. Adding to the diagnostic dilemma, many patients may not report a history of cSCCHN excision or may have a very remote history of excision. Swipe right to see a histologic photo of malignant neural infiltration by squamous cancer cells. Full post can be read using the address below.
https://www.ahns.info/malignant-facial-palsy-in-the-setting-of-cutaneous-head-and-neck-squamous-cell-carcinoma/