Étude électromyographique du muscle temporalis avant une myoplastie d’allongement dans le syndrome de Moebius

Moebius Syndrome: A Case Report on an Uncommon Congenital Syndrome

Moebius syndrome (MS) is rare. It is defined by congenital bilateral paralysis of the sixth and seventh cranial nerves, resulting in an absence of mimicry and strabismus responsible for major relational disorders. Other cranial nerves can also be affected (third, fourth, fifth, ninth, tenth, and twelfth cranial pairs). In the majority of cases, MS is sporadic, causing problems with sucking, swallowing, breathing, and phonation. Associated malformations have also been reported. The disease is not progressive, and management is mainly symptomatic. We report a three-year-old girl who presented with facial asymmetry and in whom the MS was confirmed through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A multidisciplinary approach was conducted on our patient and is currently being followed up in the neuropediatrics department, and an ophthalmological examination is scheduled. Additionally, she had medical consultations with a plastic surgeon for smile rehabilitation. On the other hand, psychological support was maintained.

Orofacial motor dysfunction in Moebius syndrome

AIM

To review orofacial disabilities and their consequences in children with Moebius syndrome (MBS).

METHOD

We retrospectively analysed the records of 32 patients (21 males, 11 females) with non-progressive bilateral facial and abducens palsies who had been examined before 6 months of age.

RESULTS

All facial muscles were severely involved in 17 patients; in the 15 others, partial movements were found in the lower face. Most patients (n=24) were unable to smile. Patients frequently presented with congenital trismus (n=20) and drooling (n=18). Additional palsies involved cranial nerves IX and X (n=18) and XII (n=25). Sucking was absent or weak in 30 patients; swallowing was impaired in 25. During the first month of life, feeding disorders were graded as severe/moderate in 25. Respiratory complications occurred in 17. Severe feeding disorders were associated with congenital trismus (p=0.01) and with cranial nerve IX and X palsy (p=0.01). Growth failure between 1 and 6 months of age, followed by catch-up growth between 6 and 12 months, was observed in 20 patients. Between 2 and 5 years of age, 25 out of 32 patients attained normal oral diet and 28 out of 29 showed normal growth.

INTERPRETATION

Children with MBS frequently require adjusted therapeutic options to prevent failure to thrive. Congenital trismus, cranial nerve IX and X palsy, and laryngeal-tracheal dysfunctions are predictors of severe feeding disorders.

WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS

Moebius syndrome frequently induces reduced oral intake and early failure to thrive. Normal oral diet and growth parameters are attained at 2 to 5 years of age. Congenital trismus, pharyngeal palsy, and laryngeal disorders predict dysphagia.