[Detection and stimulus-detection electromyography (EMG), blink-reflex and trigeminal (V2 and V3) somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP) in peripheral facial paralyses induced by cold. Importance of the systematic use of V SSEP in facial paralyses induced by cold].

Thirty-six patients afflicted with cold-induced peripheral facial paralysis were examined by classical detection and stimulus-detection E.M.G. methods (Blink Reflex) complemented by V (V2, V3) S.E.P. These examinations were carried out 4 to 7 weeks after the deficiency set in. Detection and stimulus-detection E.M.G. is the best method of confirming clinical diagnosis of peripheral facial paralysis. If there is the slightest sign of Charles Bell, the Blink-Reflex is an excellent confirmation test. S.E.P. of the V allows infra-clinical damage to the nerve to be discerned in 45% of the cases. The cause of this damage is a subject of debate.