What is Moebius Syndrome?
Moebius syndrome is a rare birth defect caused by the absence or
underdevelopment of the 6th and 7th cranial nerves, which control eye movements
and facial expression. Many of the other cranial nerves may also be affected,
including the 3rd, 5th, 8th, 9th, 11th and 12th. The first symptom, present at
birth, is an inability to suck. Other symptoms can include: feeding, swallowing,
and choking problems; excessive drooling; crossed eyes; lack of facial
expression; inability to smile; eye sensitivity; motor delays; high or cleft
palate; hearing problems and speech difficulties. Children with Moebius syndrome
are unable to move their eyes back and forth. Decreased numbers of muscle fibers
have been reported. Deformities of the tongue, jaw, and limbs, such as clubfoot
and missing or webbed fingers, may also occur. As children get older, lack of
facial expression and inability to smile become the dominant visible symptoms.
Approximately 30 to 40 percent of children with Moebius syndrome have some
degree of autism.
There are four recognized categories of Moebius syndrome:
- Group I, characterized by small or absent brain stem nuclei that
control the cranial nerves;
- Group II, characterized by loss and degeneration of neurons in the
facial peripheral nerve;
- Group III, characterized by loss and degeneration of neurons and
other brain cells, microscopic areas of damage, and hardened tissue in
the brainstem nuclei, and,
- Group IV, characterized by muscular symptoms in spite of a lack of
lesions in the cranial nerve.
Is there any treatment?
There is no specific course of treatment for Moebius syndrome. Treatment is
supportive and in accordance with symptoms. Infants may require feeding tubes or
special bottles to maintain sufficient nutrition. Surgery may correct crossed
eyes and improve limb and jaw deformities. Physical and speech therapy often
improves motor skills and coordination, and leads to better control of speaking
and eating abilities. Plastic reconstructive surgery may be beneficial in some
individuals. Nerve and muscle transfers to the corners of the mouth have been
performed to provide limited ability to smile.
What is the prognosis?
There is no cure for Moebius syndrome. In spite of the impairments that
characterize the disorder, proper care and treatment give many individuals a
normal life expectancy.
What research is being done?
The NINDS conducts and supports a broad range of research on neurogenetic
disorders, including Moebius syndrome. The goals of these studies are to develop
improved techniques to diagnose, treat, and eventually cure these disorders.
Organizations
Moebius Syndrome Foundation
P.O. Box 147
Pilot Grove, MO 65276
vickimc@iland.net
http://www.Moebiussyndrome.com
Tel: 660.834.3406
Fax: 660.882.3018
March of Dimes Foundation
1275 Mamaroneck Avenue
White Plains, NY 10605
askus@marchofdimes.com
http://www.marchofdimes.com
Tel: 914.428.7100 888.MODIMES (663.4637)
Fax: 914.428.8203
Children's Craniofacial Association
13140 Coit Road, Suite 307
Dallas, TX 75240
http://www.ccakids.com
Tel: 800.535.3643 214.570.9099
Fax: 214.570.8811
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
P.O. Box 1968
(55 Kenosia Avenue)
Danbury, CT 06813-1968
orphan@rarediseases.org
http://www.rarediseases.org
Tel: 203.744.0100 Voice Mail 800.999.NORD (6673)
Fax: 203.798.2291
Source: National Institutes of Health; National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 9/16/2008...#6064
