Thread Test of Lacrimation in 110 Cases of Peripheral Facial Paralysis

Abstract

The thread test of lacrimation was performed on 110 patients with peripheral facial paralysis, and the changing values during the course of paralysis were observed. In 27.3%, the values stayed within the normal range of 60% to 140% of the intact side throughout the course of illness (normal type). In 14.5%, the value was over 140% before the start of recovery (hypertype 1). High values were seen in 39.1% during recovery from facial paralysis (hypertype 2), and values under 60% (hypotype) in 6.4%. Hyperlacrimation was frequently observed in Hunt's syndrome. Hypertypes, with temporarily increased lacrimation during the course of illness, seemed to reflect the regenerating activities of injured nerves in the early and recovery phases of facial palsy.