Moebius (Möbius) syndrome is an extremely rare neurological disorder resulting in severe facial paralysis which is present at birth. Lack of facial expression is the hallmark of the syndrome. The syndrome is named after Paul Julius Moebius who first described it in the late 1800's. Many groups and organizations exist to provide information and support to individuals diagnosed with Moebius syndrome.
Symptoms
The physical symptoms caused by Moebius syndrome result from nerve damage and muscle paralysis. Individuals lack facial expressions such as the ability to smile or frown. The eyes are affected in which the individual is unable to move the eyes laterally or blink, experiences light sensitivity due to the inability to squint, and has crossed eyes (strabismus). Other symptoms include dental and hearing problems, hand and feet abnormalities, and motor delay issues.
Complications
The symptoms of Moebius syndrome can lead to many complications at all ages. Infants are unable to suck, thus requiring special devices and assistance with feeding. Delayed crawling and walking are often observed, but long-term impacts in the ability to walk are not observed. Facial paralysis leads to speech impairments, impacted even more by hearing problems. Low muscle tone may also be present resulting in respiratory illness.
Causes
Moebius syndrome is a congenital disorder, the cause of which little is known. It is present at birth and acquired during fetal development due to defects or damage to the developing fetus. It is believed that underdevelopment in the facial nerves is the primary cause of Moebius syndrome. The primary nerves affected are the 6th and 7th cranial nerves, although other cranial nerves can be affected. Other theories include vascular disruption during fetal development or stresses during pregnancy such as drug use by the mother.
Treatment
There is no cure for Moebius syndrome, but many individuals go on to live full lives. There is no specific course of treatment, which is dependent on the type and severity of symptoms. Special bottles or feeding tubes are used if infants have nursing troubles. It is recommended that children undergo speech and physical therapy to improve speaking, eating and motor skills. Lubricating eye drops help relieve dry eyes. In most cases, surgery can correct strabismus, while nerve and muscle transfer surgery sometimes allows people to smile. Other facial reconstructive surgeries are used depending on symptoms, such as surgeries to improve deformities in the limb or jaw.
Social Interaction
One of the biggest issues for individuals living with Moebius syndrome is problems with social interaction. Facial expressions play a large role in understanding conversation, building rapport and supplementing speech. Without the ability to convey emotion, such as smiling, individuals are often misunderstood or viewed as uninterested. However, individuals with Moebius syndrome learn adaptive techniques to combat these issues, such as the use of body language and vocal tone, to convey meaning during social interactions.
References
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Moebius Syndrome
- The National Craniofacial Association: Moebius Syndrome
- The Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Journal: Living With Moebius Syndrome: Adjustment, Social Competence, and Satisfaction With Life
- The Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Journal: Resiliency and Success in Adults with Moebius Syndrome
- Davidson College: Moebius Syndrome
