Role of Body Dysmorphic Disorder in Patients With Postparalytic Facial Synkinesis

Abstract

Objectives/Hypothesis To evaluate the role of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) in patients with postparalytic facial nerve syndrome with synkinesis (PFS). Study Design A single‐center retrospective cohort study. Methods A total of 221 adults (74% women; median age: 44 years; median duration since onset of facial palsy: 1.6 years) were included. To diagnose BDD, the BDD Munich Module was used. Associations with House‐Brackmann grading, Stennert index grading, Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) survey, Facial Disability Index (FDI), general quality of life (SF‐36), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS) was analyzed. Results A total of 59 patients (27%) were classified as patients with BDD. Significant associations were found between the diagnosis of BDD and female gender and lower FDI, FaCE, and SF‐36 scores and higher BDI and LSAS scores. Multivariate analysis revealed BDI, FaCE total score, and FaCE social function subscore as independent factors associated with BDD. Conclusion BDD was a relevant diagnosis in patients with PFS. A higher BDD level was associated with general and facial‐specific quality of life and more psychosocial disabilities. Optimal treatment of PFS has to include these nonmotor dysfunctions. Level of Evidence 3 Laryngoscope, 131:E2518–E2524, 2021

Translation and validation of the German version of the FACE-Q paralysis module in adult patients with unilateral peripheral facial palsy

“…A limitation of both questionnaires is the assessment of self-perception of appearance. Since it has been shown that patients with facial palsy may have a higher risk of developing body dysmorphic disorder, it is even more important to capture the appearance from the patient’s point of view 7 . In this context, the patient-reported outcome instrument FACE-Q Paralysis questionnaire, which was developed by Klassen et al in 2020, stands out as a comprehensive tool for capturing the patient’s perspective in the areas of Appearance, Facial Function, Health-related Quality of Life, and Adverse Effect 8 , 9 , The FACE-Q Paralysis is part of the more comprehensive FACE-Q Craniofacial questionnaire, which is an outcome measure designed for patients with visible and/or functional facial distinction 9 .…”

Selective zygomaticus muscle activation by ball electrodes in synkinetically reinnervated patients after facial paralysis

“…The main problem for patients suffering from facial synkinesis beyond visual disturbances is the inability to properly convey emotions. This in turn can lead to psychological issues, such as depression, social isolation, and anxiety (14)(15)(16)(17)(18). Consequently, facial synkinesis often has a strong negative impact on the quality of life of a patient (19)(20)(21).…”