Understanding Multiple cranial nerve palsies: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

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Multiple cranial nerve palsies

by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023

Additional names

This group contains additional names: - Moebius Syndrome

General

Moebius syndrome is a rare congenital (present at birth) condition that results from underdevelopment of the facial nerves that control some of the eye movements and facial expressions. The condition can also affect the nerves responsible for speech, chewing and swallowing

1 people with Multiple cranial nerve palsies

Learn from others who are experiencing Multiple cranial nerve palsies.

Signs & symptoms

People with Moebius syndrome experience: * Weakness or complete paralysis of the facial muscles * Trouble swallowing or sucking * Difficulties with speech and frequent drooling * Inability to form facial expressions, including smiling, frowning, raising eyebrows, puckering lips or closing eyes * 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)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is typically made by the physical characteristics and symptoms, patient history and a thorough clinical evaluation. There is no specific diagnostic test that confirms Moebius syndrome. Some specialised tests may be carried out to rule out other causes of facial palsy.

Treatment

Moebius syndrome can impact cranial nerves responsible for control of muscles in the tongue, jaw, larynx and throat, as well as ones that produce speech. As a result, children with Moebius syndrome may struggle with proper articulation and resonance. Severe cases of Moebius syndrome may also require a special bottle or feeding tube to help with proper nutrition. However, feeding difficulties tend to improve with age as children develop proper motor control. Physical and speech therapy can help children gain greater control of their speaking and eating, as well as improve overall coordination and motor skills. Feeding difficulties may also result in food accumulation behind the teeth, causing decay. Frequent flossing and teeth brushing can help prevent buildup and damage to the teeth and gums. For children with cleft palate, orthodontics may be required to align the teeth and jaws. Surgery may be required to help correct strabismus (crossed eyes) or to transfer nerves and muscle to the face, improving the ability to smile. Reconstructive surgery can also help address facial, limb and jaw differences.

Note

☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike

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