Clown Mask Symptom

In neurology, for the convenience of patients and therapists, a separate “clown mask symptom” is in addition to the two main symptoms of damage to the facial nerve - facial asymmetry and impaired mobility. If the above symptoms are not clearly expressed, then the condition can be considered mixed, a “clown mask”, that is, in one or two cases, the presence of a taste disorder is reflected in the presence of facial expressions.

The “Clown Mask” symptom occurs when the facial muscles weaken. A person whose nerve has been damaged may hide all (or only some) of their emotions and movements. The patient is able to control the left half of his mouth and facial expressions. As a result, the face of one victim becomes asymmetrical (left side of the body). It is often associated with the absence or a strong decrease in facial reactions to the face; a smile is produced by only one half of the mouth. The nerve is weakened and can lead to the left half moving away from one's face or displaying the emotional state on the affected side. A smile on the left side and a smile on the right together are a sign that the left half of the patient’s body has been affected.

The clown mask symptom is a diagnostic sign of facial neuritis and other inflammatory processes in the brain stem. The symptom is not directly related, but is a secondary effect - the person smiles. The essence of the symptom is the absence of redness in the corners of the lips when crying or expressed emotions, which prevents neuritis from being easily recognized. The expression “clown mask symptoms” has become widespread in everyday life. But where did it get its name? And where is its meaning, what is it used for and how is it used? We first encountered and learned about the clown mask symptom in 2016