Moebius syndrome
Moebius syndrome Causes
The abnormal development of the cranial nerves causes the disorder, usually cranial nerves VI and VII, though there are times that cranial nerves V and VIII are also affected.
Moebius syndrome Definition
This extreme neurological disorder is named after German neurologist Paul Julius.
Moebius syndrome Diagnosis
Infants with moebius syndrome can be identified at birth. A mask-like expression, called bilateral facial palsy, is usually detected during crying or laughing. This is caused by paresis of the sixth and seventh cranial nerves.
Moebius syndrome Symptoms and Signs
Patients whose cranial nerve VI is affected, a drop of the lateral gaze occurs. Meanwhile, patients will suffer from bilateral facial palsy if the cranial nerve II is affected. Bilateral facial palsy is a mask-like expressionless face where the upper lip is often drawn in due to muscle shrinkage. Hear loss may be occur among those those whose cranial VII is affected.
Moebius syndrome Treatment
Moebius syndrome does not have a known single course of medical treatment; meaning, treatment is supportive and dependent on the symptoms. Feeding tubes or special bottles may be utilized for infants to maintain adequate nutrition. Meanwhile, surgery is an option to correct crossed eyes, improve limb and jaw deformities and to protect the cornea.