Recurrent alternating facial paralysis and malignant hypertension

A previously healthy 11-year old girl with three episodes of alternating fa cial palsy is described. On examination during the third relapse a severe e ssential hypertension was diagnosed, accompanied by abnormalities on cerebr al imaging, cardiac and fundoscopic investigations. Antihypertensive treatm ent normalized the hypertension. No relapse of the facial palsy occurred si nce. The objective of this communication is to draw the attention to hypert ension as a possible cause of recurrent facial paralysis in children, to st ress the importance of measuring the blood pressure and taking a thorough f amily history in every patient presenting with facial palsy.