House-Brackmann grade V facial nerve palsy is characterised by:

• A Normal function in all areas
• B Slight weakness noticeable only on close inspection; complete eye closure with minimal effort
• C No movement whatsoever — total paralysis
• D Barely perceptible motion; incomplete eye closure; slight movement at corner of mouth ✓

Explanation

House-Brackmann Grade V is defined as barely perceptible motion with incomplete eye closure and slight facial movement at the corner of the mouth. Grade VI (no movement) is total paralysis. Grade IV shows obvious weakness but complete eye closure possible with effort and gross movement of the face with asymmetry. Accurate grading guides prognosis and management decisions (eye protection in Grades IV–VI).

Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.