Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome in the periocular area: a review of the literature and case report

Abstract

A triad of facial palsy, facial edema, and furrowed tongue characterizes Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome, a rare, noncaseating granulomatous disease of unknown cause. Although most reported cases of Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome involve swelling of the perioral area, the authors present a case of Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome involving the periocular area. Because of its rarity, the syndrome is usually ignored and misdiagnosed; however, the syndrome should not only be considered in the classic perioral presentation but also in the rare periocular form, which may be confused with orbital tumors and orbital pseudotumors. Biopsies should be performed routinely in all patients who present with eyelid edema of unknown etiology. The physician and surgeon who see patients with head and neck pathology should be familiar with Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome, and with the possibility of its presentation in the orbit and periocular region.