Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome

Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome: a Case Report of the Classic Triad

Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome (MRS) is a rare neurological condition that includes a triad of symptoms including recurring facial paralysis, orofacial swelling, and fissured tongue. The diagnosis and treatment of this syndrome is difficult since the classic triad is rarely possible to see in its complete form. The etiology of MRS is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by various factors such as infections, genetic predisposition, immune deficiency, food intolerance, and stress. This case report presents a 22- year-old male patient with classical triad of MRS.

Melkersson⁻Rosenthal Syndrome in Childhood: Report of Three Paediatric Cases and a Review of the Literature

Melkersson–Rosenthal syndrome (MRS) in children is a rare condition, clinically characterised by a triad of synchronous or metachronous symptoms: recurrent peripheral facial palsy, relapsing orofacial oedema, and a fissured tongue; the most recent review published on the topic has reported 30 published patients. The aetiology of this disease is still unclear. However, genetic factors, as well as alterations in immune functions, infections, and allergic reactions have been postulated. We report three children suffering from MRS and perform a literature review of paediatric cases. Taking into account that clinical and laboratoristical criteria for the diagnosis of MRS are lacking, this syndrome is probably underestimated, and we suggest increasing awareness of such a rare syndrome. Close multidisciplinary follow-up of these children with a team composed by paediatricians, neurologists, neuro-ophthalmologists, dermatologists, and otolaryngologists is crucial to guarantee exhaustive management and treatment success, while minimising relapses.

Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome with Orofacial Swelling and Recurrent Lower Motor Neuron Facial Nerve Palsy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome (MRS) is a rare otoneurologic condition, which is poorly understood and often underdiagnosed. Etiology and incidence are unclear, although infectious, inflammatory, and genetic causes have been implicated. Recurrent facial nerve palsy, facial swelling, and fissured tongue are the symptoms and signs of this condition. However, this triad is not typical in all patients as patients may present with one or more of the symptoms, which makes management of this condition difficult. Steroids may prove to be useful especially in patients who have facial nerve palsy. In this case report, we have described a 46 year-old Caucasian male who presented to the clinic for the evaluation of orofacial swelling and left facial deviation with a history of multiple treatments for recurrent lower motor neuron type facial nerve palsy.