Moebius syndrome is a rare neurological condition that can affect several cranial nerves, particularly those that control the muscles of the face. The sixth and seventh cranial nerves are typically absent from birth (congenitally absent). These nerves are missing in Moebius syndrome, which results in the recognizable facial paralysis and other symptoms. ¹

Moebius Syndrome Causes

Most cases of Moebius syndrome are sporadic, and its root cause is uncertain. Although there are competing explanations in the medical literature, most research points to a combination of hereditary and environmental risk factors. Some cases suggest the risk that the disease could be passed from parent to kid.²

 

Clinical Symptoms

People with Moebius syndrome experience: ²

> Facial muscles that are completely paralyzed or weakened

> Problems sucking or swallowing

> Difficulties with speech and frequent drooling

> Inability of capacity to make facial expression such a smile, a frown, an eyebrow raise, a lip pucker, or a closed eye

> Cleft palate

> Dental problems

> Hand and foot problems including club foot and missing or fused fingers (syndactyly)

> Hearing problems

> High palate

> Irritated and dry eyes

> Motor delays

> Poland’s syndrome (chest wall and upper limb anomalies)

> Strabismus (crossed eyes)

 

Treatment

The Moebius syndrome is not specifically treated in any way. Supportive and symptom-based treatments are used. To ensure adequate nutrition, babies may need feeding tubes or special bottles. Surgery may be used to treat limb and jaw abnormalities as well as crossed eyes. Therapy for motor skills and coordination as well as speech and eating control are frequently outcomes of physical and speech therapy. For some people, plastic surgery for reconstruction may be advantageous. To enable a limited ability to grin, nerve and muscle transfers to the corners of the lips have been made.³

 

 

 

Sources:

1. Norman Abby, Kelly Caitilin. An Overview of Moebius Syndrome. Very Well Health. Updated on January 21, 2020. Available at: https://www.verywellhealth.com/moebius-syndrome-overview-4174971

2. The John Hopkins. Moebius Syndrome. John Hopkins Medicine. Acessed on July 22, 2022. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/moebius-syndrome

3. Moebius Syndrome. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Updated on April 25, 2022. Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/moebius-syndrome

 

Picture:

https://positiveexposure.org/galleries/moebius-2012/