What is the acute idiopathic paralysis of the facial nerve resulting in paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face called?

The condition described as acute idiopathic paralysis of the facial nerve, leading to paralysis of muscles on one side of the face, is known as Bell palsy. Bell palsy is characterized by sudden onset of facial weakness or paralysis, often occurring overnight, with the affected side of the face appearing droopy. The exact cause of Bell palsy is not fully understood, but it is believed to be linked to viral infections, which can lead to inflammation of the facial nerve.

In contrast, Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a neurological disorder that leads to widespread weakness and can affect various muscles, but it does not typically cause isolated facial paralysis. A stroke can also result in facial paralysis, but it usually involves additional neurological deficits depending on the area of the brain affected and is not classified as idiopathic. Facial asymmetry is a symptom rather than a diagnosis, and it does not specifically refer to the acute nature or the idiopathic origins of the paralysis. Overall, Bell palsy is the correct diagnosis for this type of acute unilateral facial paralysis.