Which of the following exam findings is indicative of cranial nerve VII weakness?

The presence of a flat nasolabial fold combined with weakness in eye closure is a classic indication of dysfunction in cranial nerve VII, also known as the facial nerve. This nerve is responsible for the muscles that control facial expression, and its weakness can lead to a characteristic asymmetry in the face.

When cranial nerve VII is impaired, one side of the face may droop, leading to a less pronounced nasolabial fold, as this fold primarily relies on muscle function to maintain its depth and contour. Additionally, the inability to fully close the eye on the affected side indicates weakness in the orbicularis oculi muscle, which is also innervated by the facial nerve.

In contrast, the other options depict normal or compensatory facial muscle function. A raised eyebrow with a symmetrically wrinkled forehead indicates intact function of the frontalis muscle, which is also regulated by the facial nerve. Similarly, a stable nasolabial fold with a strong smile suggests normal muscle tone and activity, while fully closed eyes and raised eyebrows indicate intact facial muscle function. These findings do not align with the characteristics of cranial nerve VII weakness.