“A male student noticed while shaving one morning that he was unable to move the left side of his face. He had suffered from influenza-like symptoms the week before this sudden attack. On examination at the doctor’s office he could not wrinkle his forehead on the left side, and could not show his teeth or pucker his lips on that side. Taste sensation was also affected. A test to determine tear secretion showed that secretion on the right side was normal, but the left side produced little fluid. The patient was also experiencing “dry mouth” and loud noises caused him discomfort. He showed no additional signs or symptoms and was in good health otherwise.”
Explain the possible anatomical causes for each of these symptoms.
Identify three differential diagnoses (diseases or conditions that present similar signs and symptoms that could possibly account for the student’s symptoms) with appropriate justifications. Provide the most likely diagnosis based on this analyses.
From an anatomy point of view:
Explain the various treatment options for the presenting symptoms.
Propose a management plan for the most likely diagnosis.
Explain the effects of the management plan for this condition.