Marcus Gunn (jaw-winking) phenomenon in pediatric otorhinolaryngology practice

Abstract

Marcus Gunn phenomenon (MGP) is a rare form of congenital facial synkinesis known as jaw-winking or pterygoid-levator synkinesis. The MGP is the raising of the affected eyelid is synchronous and proportionate to the opening of the mouth. The etiology is unclear. Most authors claim that a branch of trigeminal nerve has been congenitally misdirected into position of the oculomotor nerve which supplies the levator muscle of the upper lid. The MGP deals with number of problems which have to be manage by ENT doctors, but they are not well‑documented. We describe the first time Marcus Gunn phenomenon associated with an olfactory nerve disturbance. We have especially emphasized laryngological aspect of MGP diagnosis and the need for deeper interdisciplinary diagnostics in each child with olfactory dysfunction.

Keywords: Anosmia; Jaw-winking synkinesis; Marcus Gunn syndrome; Pterygoid-levator; Synkinesis.